FEATURES

08 OK! NEWS

14 SOCIETY DIARY

30 SABA QAMAR & EMMAAD

IRFANIThe actors talk about their acclaimed drama

serial, Cheekh, sharing screen space, and how they

prepared for their strong, nuanced characters….

44 EMMA STONE The award-winning actress on her new film,

Zombieland, dealing with her fears and anxieties,

her love for acting, and her determination to

succeed

50 KIRAN CHAUDHRYOK! Pakistan speaks to the multi-faceted

Kiran Chaudhry about all the aspects of their

entrepreneurship, style, mentors, and more!

56 GILLIAN ANDERSONThe Crown star, Gillian Anderson, on fighting

inequality, her big break and playing Margaret

Thatcher

FASHIONISTA65 RED CARPET

68 FASHION EDITORIAL: INTO THE

NIGHT

74 THINK PINK BALL, UK

78 FASHION EDIT: HIGH VOLTAGE

80 STYLE CRUSH: KAIA GERBER &

DAVID GANDY

84 MEN’S EDIT: SWEATER

WEATHER

86 OK! STREETSTYLE

88 JEWELLERY EDIT: WATCH OUT

90 GET THE LOOK: GITI ARA

92 BEAUTY EDIT: INTO THE WOODS

94 BEAUTY ESSENTIALS

96 WHAT’S IN HER BAG? YASHMA

GILL

98 MY WONDERFUL LIFE: IZZA

SAMI KHAN

99 MUST-HAVE BEAUTY

LIFESTYLE

100 OK! SPOTLIGHT: HYDRIS

WAJIUDDIN, HYDROFIT

104 UP CLOSE: ZUBAB RANA

106 DINE DIVINE: RECIPES WITH

LORNA JANE CLARKSON

107 LITERATI: 10 MINUTES 38

SECONDS IN THIS STRANGE WORLD

108 TRAVELLER’S TALE: ABEER

RIZVI

110 OK! TRAVEL: OMAN

112 OK! HEALTH: IMPOSTER

SYNDROME

114 WORLD IN ACTION

116 OK! ASTROLOGY & TAROT

CONTENTS ISSUE 68, DECEMBER 2019

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Editor’s Note

Editor’s Picks

Sara Amir Turab EDITOR-IN-CHIEF

Our cover story this time is on the talented duo, Saba Qamar and

Emmad Irfani, whose play, Cheekh, did tremendously well and

garnered much appreciation from audiences around the world.

The actors talk about the acclaimed serial, sharing screen space, and

their desire to be a part of meaningful projects. “I love challenging myself

as an actor and pushing my limits to play unique characters...Cheek’s

script raised social awareness and the story was worth telling,” says

Saba Qamar.

Adds Emmad Irfani: “If my acting has had an impact on some people, it

indicates that I have done justice to my job.”

We have a feature on Gillian Anderson, who was catapulted into the

limelight in the 90s with her role as Agent Scully in the American science

fiction TV series, The X-Files. Gillian talks about her long career and the

diverse characters she has portrayed, her work in the Netflix series, The

Crown, and playing Margaret Thatcher - a character she describes as

“absolutely fascinating”.

Award-winning actress Emma Stone talks about her new film,

Zombieland, her innate love for acting, her passion for work, and dealing

with her fears and anxiety. “Acting is something that helped me overcome

a lot of my anxiety and doubts in life,” she shares. “I was an introverted

child, pimply and I su�ered from panic attacks. The theater allowed me

to live in a world of my own: on stage my problems vanished.”

We are happy to bring you a feature on the dynamic entrepreneur, Kiran

Chaudhry who tells us about her venture, Anaya by Kiran Chaudhry,

entering retail with her first store in Lahore, and launching her debut

couture bridal collection recently. Kiran is known for her strong work

ethic, her detail-oriented nature, and her a�able disposition. “I believe

perseverance, discipline, and grit are what make things happen,” she

says. “Nothing is possible without hard work and I believe that is the

secret to success.”

As always, we have a great selection of health, beauty, fashion and travel

features, and we hope you enjoy the issue.

Fuller House, final season

Anaya by Kiran Chaudhry x Kamiar Rokni Wedding Collection

Rumana Husain’s book, Graphic Stories: Noor Jehan

SHAMAELA H PARACHA

CHAIRPERSON

SAHER H PARACHA

CEO, PUBLISHER & CREATIVE DIRECTOR

EDITOR-IN-CHIEF – SARA AMIR TURAB ALI

MANAGING EDITOR – MAIRA PAGGANWALA

FASHION & BEAUTY EDITOR – ALIZEH PASHA

CONTRIBUTING FASHION & BEAUTY EDITOR – ALYZEH RAHIM SHIRAZI

STYLE EDITOR – RAO ALI KHAN

FASHION & BEAUTY WRITER – FATIMA DANISH

CREATIVE DESIGNER – ATIF MEHMOOD

MARKETING HEAD – SHERAZ AKBER ALI

SENIOR MARKETING EXECUTIVE – MEHR KASSIM

SOCIAL MEDIA MANAGER – AMINAH TARIQ

OK! INTERNATIONAL

OK! AUSTRALIA – SHARI NEMENTZIK

OK! BULGARIA – NEVENA DYAKOVA

OK! CHINA – FENG CHUXUAN

OK! CYPRUS – PETRA ARGYROU

OK! GEORGIA – NINCHO JIBLADZE

OK! GERMANY – TIM AFFELD

OK! GREECE – NIKOS GEORGIADIS

OK! JAPAN – KANA SUGAMORI

OK! LATVIA – LAILA PASTARE

OK! PAKISTAN – SAHER H PARACHA

OK! ROMANIA – ELENA STOICHITA

OK! RUSSIA – VADIM VERNIK

OK! THAILAND – WEERAWUT UJJUTAMANUS

OK! UNITED KINGDOM – CAROLINE WATERSTON

OK! VENEZUELA – ALEJANDRO GUTIÉRREZ TREMOLA

OK! WORLDWIDE LICENSING

HEAD OF OK! WORLDWIDE – EMMA RADFORD

OK! WORLDWIDE LICENSING MANAGER – JULIA TAYLOR

OK! WORLDWIDE LEGAL CONSULTANT – DR JOHNSON OKPALUBA

OK! Pakistan is published by Juicy Publications (PVT). LTD. Produced under licence from Reach Magazines Worldwide Limited Registered Number (6395556) – One Canada Square, Canary Wharf, London E14 5AP. “OK!” and “OK! FIRST FOR CELEBRITY NEWS” are registered trade marks of Reach

Magazines Worldwide Limited. All rights reserved. Reproduction in whole or in part without written permission is strictly prohibited.Printed by Atlas Printing Press L.L.C, Dubai

All comments and opinions expressed in OK! Pakistan are those of their respective contributors only. The views expressed in this magazine do not necessarily represent or reflect the views of OK! Pakistan, its management or employees. OK! Pakistan is not responsible for, and disclaims any and all liability to the fullest extent permitted by law for, the content of comments written by contributors to this magazine.

08

OK! NEWS

Kate to follow Queen’s fur ban

After a lifetime of wearing fur, it’s been

announced that, as of this year, Her

Majesty the Queen now only buys

faux pieces for her personal wardrobe. It’s

thought that her ‘woke’ decision, which was

revealed by personal adviser and confidante

Angela Kelly, is likely to encourage other

royals to follow suit. And according to royal

commentator Katie Nicholl, the Duchess

of Cambridge will be one of the first to

show her respect. “I’ve seen Kate wearing

fur on occasion and if anyone’s going to

be influenced by the Queen it will be her,”

Katie exclusively tells OK!, adding: “While

some of Kate’s hats have featured ethically

sourced fur, I think we’ll see her choosing faux

alternatives in future.” Buckingham Palace

confirmed the Queen’s savvy style switch

after Angela wrote in her new book The Other

Side Of The Coin: The Queen, The Dresser And

The Wardrobe: “If Her Majesty is due to attend

an engagement in particularly cold weather,

from 2019 onwards fake fur will be used to

make sure she stays warm.”

Although it’s understood that the 93-year-old

royal will continue to use her ermine-trimmed

robes and crowns on state occasions, a

palace spokesperson said: “As new outfits are

designed, any fur used will be fake.”

It’s not yet clear if Her Majesty still intends

to wear her existing fur garments. However,

as Katie points out: “I don’t think she’ll be

clearing out her wardrobe. After all, every

outfit is photographed and archived, and

iconic pieces become part of royal history.”

Laal Kabootar wins the Best Feature Film Award at the Vancouver International South Asian Film Festival 2019

Nehr Ghar Films’ debut production,

Laal Kabootar won the Best

Feature Film Award at the

Vancouver International South Asian

Film Festival 2019. Director Kamal Khan

received the award on the Closing Night

& Awards Ceremony held at Surrey City

Hall in Surrey, British Columbia on 17th

November 2019.

Pakistan’s o�cial submission for

the 92nd Academy Awards in the

‘International Feature Film Award’

category, Laal Kabootar also won the

Archana Soy Audience Award for ‘Best

Feature Film’ at the Tasveer South Asian

Film Festival 2019 in Seattle. In addition

to this, Laal Kabootar was screened, as

an o�cial selection, at the Singapore

South Asian International Film Festival

2019 and at the prestigious Washington

DC South Asian Film Festival 2019,

where the dynamic and super talented

lead, Ahmed Ali Akbar, won the ‘Best

Actor Male’ Award for his outstanding

performance.

Credited as the best Pakistani

movie of 2019, Laal Kabootar is a

rollercoaster ride featuring Ahmed

Ali Akbar as Adeel Nawaz - a hustling

taxi-driver, looking for a way out of

Karachi. But with his back against the

wall, Adeel has some hard choices

to make. Aliya Malik, played by the

alluring Mansha Pasha, is strong-

headed to the point of being stubborn.

However when her world turns upside

down in a series of incidents, she

chooses to put up a fight even though

her life is on the line. With its action-

packed sequences and blinding pace,

the critically acclaimed film also stars

Rashid Farooqui, Saleem Meraj, Ali

Kazmi, Shamim Hilali, Akbar Islam,

to name a few. Laal Kabootar has

been directed by the award-winning

Kamal Khan with Harvard graduates

Hania Chima and Kamil Chima as the

executive producers.

10

OK! NEWS

Hamza Akram Qawwal and brothers receive high honour from the Governor of Maryland

Pakistan’s acclaimed qawwali stars, Hamza Akram Qawwal and Brothers

Taimoor Akram and Abdul Akram, have received the citation certificate

from the Governor of Maryland for their outstanding services in the

State.

The award-winning ensemble has been on their sixth American tour, hitting

the stage in major cities as a part of their ‘Sufi Qawwali US Tour’. Covering major

venues and garnering critical acclaim, they have received much appreciation

for their contributions to the entertainment scene in the State, representing

Pakistan in front of an international audience. The citation certificate from the

Governor of Maryland adds another achievement in the list of accolades to

their credit

The grandsons of the revered Munshi Raziuddin are acclaimed worldwide

for their riveting interpretations of qawwali.

7th Sky Entertainment Dil-e-Gumshuda ends with record ratings

Millions of viewers settled

in for the epic finale

of the most popular

drama of the season, Dil-e-

Gumshuda, produced by ace

producers Abdullah Kadwani

and Asad Qureshi under the

banner of 7th Sky Entertainment,

delivered with a record-breaking

ending on the ratings chart for

Geo Entertainment.

According to the Kantar

Media Pakistan numbers, the

last episode of the serial ended

with a bang, getting a record 17.0

TRPs, which is the highest rating

for any drama in 2019 on the

9pm time slot.

Starring Amar Khan, Aagha

Ali and Hina Altaf in the lead

roles, Dil-e-Ghumshuda’s success proves that 7th Sky Entertainment is a

quality entertainment company that has been consistently giving super-hit

content for audiences across Pakistan.

12

OK! News

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Ayesha Chundrigar Foundation pioneers Pakistan’s first dog leashes made out of ghost net

ACF is the first organization in the world to introduce eco-friendly dog

leashes made out of ghost net found in the oceans.

Popularly known as ACF Animal Rescue in Pakistan, the Ayesha

Chundrigar Foundation is a non-profit organization which started the

first-ever animal shelter and sanctuary for street and homeless dogs and

cats in Pakistan alongside working donkeys and mules. ACF started a

movement for change six years ago when there was zero animal welfare

in the country.

In 2018, ACF won the WWF Green Innovation Challenge for creating

Pakistan’s first handmade dog leashes out of 100% ghost net. ACF

partnered with WWF in introducing this innovative project where the

foundation funded the project with seed money to engage fishermen

to extract wasted ghost net from the oceans that are then crafted into

beautiful leashes by engaging the local community women.

Talking about the pioneering dog leashes, ACF founder Ayesha

Chundrigar said “We have created a product close to our heart. This is also an e�ort to play our part in improving the

environment. Through this project, we are not only helping in saving marine animals but also giving pet owners a

chance to be eco-friendlier as the dog leash are made out of 100% ghost net.”

The ghost net used for the dog leases is handmade by women who have been employed in the impoverished

fishing villages that have been trained in braiding the leash by team ACF, helping them become independent and

self-su�cient.

Registered in Pakistan with the vision of assisting and empowering marginalized and neglected communities

within Pakistani society, particularly street and working animals who are on the lowest rung of the ladder of su�ering,

ACF started the first rescue service and hotline number for people to report cases of abuse, neglect, cruelty, and

abandonment.

Downton Abbey’s Michelle finds love

Four years after the heartbreaking death of her fiancé, Downton Abbey’s

Michelle Dockery has found love again. For the past three months,

Michelle, 37, has been dating Jasper Waller-Bridge, brother of Fleabag

creator Phoebe. She was previously engaged to Irish public relations director

John Dineen when he passed away from cancer in 2015, aged just 34.

Jasper, 31, is believed to be Michelle’s first relationship since the tragedy. A

source said: “It was all taken slowly and in a considered manner but they are

really enjoying being together. Michelle has been travelling a lot to promote the

Downton Abbey movie but they have been in constant contact. Their friends

and families are very happy for them. It is just so lovely.”

Michelle is believed to be friends with Jasper’s sister Phoebe and they

reportedly crossed paths in LA this summer. They were also seen together at

the Rome Film Festival last month.

AHMED ALI & IMRAN ABBAS

TABBASUM ARIF &

HINA PASHA

RABIA

ANJUM

BINA HASSAN, WASIM AKRAM, SHANIERA AKRAM, MICHELLE MUMTAZ & HINA ASHFAQ

ERUM MASOOD

ESHAL FAYYAZ

SUMBUL

IQBAL

SOFIA NAVEEDAZEKA DANEIL

RUBAB ARIF

SONIA NAZEER TEHMINA KHALED HUMAYUN SAEED & ADNAN SIDDIQUE

BATOOL MEHDI

SEEMI PASHA

Almirah KARACHI

Almirah launched their new revamped outlet & their new winter collection at

Dolmen Mall Clifton.

©2

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– R

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, Pro

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ris, Z

urich.

The photography background is

the visual art Othello by Le Corbusier.

Le Corbusier, master architect of

the 20th century also designed

La Maison EBEL.

EBEL.COM

AVAILABLE AT:

AM:PM Dolmen Mall Clifton Karachi.

Tel +92 21 3529 3948-9

Movements Dolmen Mall Clifton Karachi.

Tel +92 21 3529 7871-2

AB LAKHANI & FAHAD LAKHANI

SHAHZEN RAHAT & SOHAIL HASHMI

HASSAN RIZVI

FATIMA CHATTHA

RAZA JAFFERY

BILAL KHAN

SHAHZEN RAHATZHALAY SARHADI

ABDULLAH IJAZ

UMAIR MAJEED, MUHAMMAD UMAIR, SHAHID JAVED QURESHI,NADEEM USMANI, AKBAR ALI SHAH,ASAD FACTO, SAAD FACTO, FARRUKH SIDDQUI

HUMAYUN ALAMGIR

MARZIE & SHANAZ RAMZI

Second Cup CoffeeKARACHI

Second Cup Co�ee Company opened its doors

in Karachi recently. The launch was attended by celebrities, socialites and

media personalities.

Available at

AM:PM, Dolmen Mall, Clifton, Karachi

Tel +92 21 3529 3948-9

Movements, Dolmen Mall, Clifton, Karachi

Tel +92 352978712

For us, innovation must

always serve function. For

example, raising our bezel by

2mm has improved the grip.

Just a little.

When you care about watches,

just a little matters a lot.

Aquis Date Relief

ALI KAMRAN & SEHAR ALI

NAUREEN KHAILD & FRIEHA ALTAF

MIAN SAQIB NISAR

SHAAN SHAHID

MR & MRS SALMAN SHAHEEN

NAZIA NAZIR

ZAINAB MALIK

AMBER LIQUATSANIA SHAH

NADIA

ASMA CHISTY

AMINA & FATIMA MISBAH MOMIN UZMA, & JUJU

HUMA & SAKINA

CannoliLAHORE

Cannoli by Cafe Soul recently opened its doors in Lahore. The launch was a

huge success.

ATIYA KHAN & YOUSUF SALAHUDDIN

AVAILABLE AT:

AM:PM Dolmen Mall Clifton Karachi.

Tel +92 21 3529 3948-9

Movements Dolmen Mall Clifton Karachi.

Tel +92 21 3529 7871-2

AHMAD PANSOTA & AYESHA

RANA NOUMAN & AAMIR MAZHAR

SAIRA FAISAL

AMIR & HAMNA AMIR

AMBER LIAQAT

BABLOO & SAMINA

CHANDA WASEEM

NAILA ISHTIAQ

ZAINAB MALIK

HINA EIJAZRUBIA MOGHEES

SHAHZAD RAZA

ALI ARIF

RIMA FAREED REEMA AHSAN TAMIUR ARSHAD & ASAD MALIK

SOFIA

SHAFAQ HABIB

Hamna AmirLAHORE

Hamna Amir hosted an exclusive preview of bridal

jewellery at her flagship studio on MM Alam Road

Gulberg Lahore which was well attended by designers, make-up gurus & jewellery

lovers.

AMINA TIWANA & SAIRA TIWANA

ADEN REHAN & REHAN BABER

AMNA MALIK & AREEBA ASAD

AIMEN HIKMAT

ZARMINAY HAQ

AREESHA KAMRAN

FATIMA MALIK

ALISHEH SHAH

HIRA SHARAIZRABIA WAHEED

MAHUM YAQOOB

AMBER LIAQAT

ZAINAB MALIK ZAHRA MALIK AMINA SAQIB & MALEEHA AKRAM

AREEJ FATIMA

MAHNOOR & MOMAL

Maryam HussainLAHORE

Maryam Hussain celebrated the launch of her unstitched luxury line at Cosa Nostra on

15th November 2019.

ZAINAB CHOTTANI & BUSHRA BUTT

MAHRUKH & SANIA

SHEHR-BANO

AMNA MONNOO

RIMA FARID

UMAIR MIRZA & OMAR MANSOOR

SUMRINA KHAN

SOPHIA NAUREEN

HINA EIJAZ

NAZISH SAMEERHADDIYA AAZER

NAILA ISHTIAQ

SARA AMIR TURAB

ZAINAB CHEEMA MEHREEN TABANI ZARMINAY HAQ & BUSHRA MUSTAFA

SALMA MUDASSAR

SOPHIA AHMED

Zainab Chottani LAHORE

Zainab Chottani hosted an exclusive bridal preview & first look at Tahra’s pretty

chic casuals at her store at Gulberg Galleria in Lahore

which was well attended by the fashion lovers of the city.

AFSHEEN & MOHSIN NAQVI

FARIS RAHMAN & AINY JAFFREE

EVA & PROFESSOR MEL LOBO

HAJIRA AHMAD & BIPIN DESAI

MANDEEP AHLUWLIA

SAMI HUSSIANNAZILA MALIK

MOHAMMED & ROMANA KHAMISA

SAJDA SHEETAL MAFATLAL

TRACY WONG & HAJRA LALLJEE

RABIA MALIK & SHIVANI AHLUWALIA

VIKRANT & SURBHI

The ThinkPink Ball

LONDON

EBH presented its 15th annual THINK PINK Ball in aid of Cancer Research UK on 9th November

2019 at Rosewood London, bringing together business

figures, entrepreneurs & professionals, united to support

the worthy cause.

SUKESHI PABARI, SANGINI & AHINIS SETHI

ERUM, SEEMA & NEELU

RADHIKA CHANANA, RATIKA PURI & NATASHA

NOA HAYDON

MARIAM HUSSAIN BELINDA & PAYAL MALHOTRA

ABBAS LALLJEE

DR.MANNI WARAICH & SALINA DACRON PIZZIE

CHIARA

SAKEENA LALLJEE

SANA SHAH

AJAY PABAR

NASEER & NAILA AHMAD

SURBHI L, ANNE MARIE GEE & NEELAMBAREE PRASAD

KRISHE BHAWA & AHINIS

NAVRAJ

Saba Qamar and Emmad Irfani on their acclaimed drama serial, Cheekh, sharing screen space, and how they

prepared for their strong, nuanced characters...

Saba Qamar & Emmad Irfani

Pakistan’s adored television pair

Saba Qamar and Emmad Irfani

brought the acclaimed drama

serial Cheekh to life. Their onscreen

chemistry has molded perspectives

and helped many restore their faith

in the institution of marriage. Not to

forgo their acting talent that stoked us to the core.

Model-turned-actor Emmad Irfani has engrained

himself in the realm of performing arts. He hopes

to further develop his artistic image with robust

television roles. We will now see him lead a feature

film, the period drama Gawah Rehna, as his debut.

Saba Qamar has also stood the test of time,

signing her new film Kamli and bagging other

exciting roles. Get to know the fiery stars better in

this candid conversation with OK! Pakistan.

SABA QAMAR

Three words that encapsulate your persona.

Saba Qamar: Simplicity, honesty and positivity.

Were your parents supportive of your career

choice when you started out as a newbie?

SQ: Let’s just say they were not enthused that

someone in their family wanted to pursue a career

in show business.

How would you classify yourself as a

performer?

SQ: That is a tough one! I am still learning.

Your drama Cheekh has amassed a huge fan

base. What inspired you to play Mannat and are

you content with your performance overall?

SQ: I knew Mannat would help shape perspectives

when I read her character for the first time. The

script raised social awareness and the story was

worth telling. I prefer playing characters that have

substance, and can challenge me as an artist. I

am content with the kind of love and appreciation

I have received from the audience.

In what ways has Cheekh tapped our society’s

power dynamic?

SQ: For starters, it has generated consciousness

in our society, and has led our people to believe

and accept that their voice has power; they just

need to use it rightfully to combat social evils and

injustices.

Your chemistry with co-star Emmad Irfani was

widely praised by critics and fans alike. How

did you both manage to kindle a realistic spark

onscreen as a fictional couple?

SQ: I am truly grateful to everyone who loved and

supported our chemistry. I knew beforehand that

our relationship would be a major pull factor for

the viewers. It was important for me to keep it

organic. Emmad and I performed with ease just

so our chemistry would appear genuine and not

made up. I believe the realness of Mannat and

Shayan’s bond stood out for most people.

An actor embraces a range of characters, be it

powerful, villainous or naïve. Do you wish to

see yourself in diverse television roles?

SQ: Yes, of course. I love challenging myself as

an actor and pushing my limits to play unique

characters.

Do you fear being stereotyped for playing

strong female characters?

SQ: I am a fearless actor. I have portrayed distinct

roles my entire career and have chosen inspiring

characters. I don’t think one can be stereotyped

in that capacity. An actor must unapologetically

perform di�erent characters to experience

optimum growth.

How is the transitioning process like for you,

swapping from one role to the other?

SQ: The transition is never easy for me. I adopt one

or two traits from each character and completely

let go of the previous character. Embracing a new

role can be tough for me sometimes but I think the

process itself is important because it allows me to

perform better. As actors, we are at an advantage

provided we continuously learn and evolve from

our past portrayals.

32

“ Cheekh’s script raised social awareness and the story was worth telling. ” – Saba Qamar

OK! PAKISTAN • 33

SABA QAMAR WEARING A SEQUENCE OUTFIT BY SEMSEM

“ I am a fearless actor. ” – Saba Qamar

SABA WEARING A GOLDEN SEQUENCE TOP PAIRED WITH A MULTI-COLOURED

CRINKLED SKIRT BY AAVVA. EMMAD DONS A ROYAL MAROON TUXEDO BY VAVCI

Among all the characters you have previously

played, which one was the most dicult

to transition out of, both mentally and

physically?

SQ: Qandeel Baloch in Baaghi.

Which past role is closest to your heart?

SQ: Mishal in Besharam.

Your preferred role for the future: comedic or

dramatic?

SQ: I don’t have a preferred role. The characters

only interest me if they are meaningful.

What kind of character do you hope to play

next?

SQ: Someone out of the box.

You have also worked in the critically and

commercially successful Bollywood movie

Hindi Medium. How was your experience

working with Irfaan Khan in a professional

capacity?

SQ: It was wonderful! Irfaan Khan is not only a

brilliant actor but also an amazing human being.

I am glad I had the opportunity to work with one

of my favourite actors.

Tell us about your forthcoming projects.

SQ: I am working on two new projects; both the

scripts and characters are extremely interesting

and very close to my heart.

We are yet to see you make a comeback on the

big screen. Have you signed any feature film

yet?

SQ: My next film is Kamli by Khoosat Films. My

character is influential and I am certain that

the audience will experience an emotional

rollercoaster while watching the movie.

Your thoughts on nepotism?

SQ: It all comes down to talent, in my opinion.

People who are skilled enough will succeed

regardless. Those who fall short of acting will

never be able to make their mark despite who

backs them. Talent prevails in the end.

A colour that matches your personality?

SQ: White.

A personal quality you want to work on?

SQ: I am credulous. I hope I can change that.

Are you satisfied with where you are in life?

SQ: Yes, I am. You feel happy once you fully

embrace your flaws and past mistakes.

EMMAD IRFANI

Share a fun fact about yourself.

Emmad Irfani: I want to work on myself every

day in a manner that amplifies my craft.

When did you discover your passion for

modelling?

EI: People said I had the qualities of a typical

model. Initially, I had my apprehensions

considering that fashion is predominantly a

female-oriented field. I experienced immense

success with modelling when I took it up as a

career but wasn’t entirely passionate about it. It

was more of a hobby. It was six years ago that

I decided to leave modelling behind and focus

only on acting.

36

OK! PAKISTAN • 37

EMMAD IN A BLUE SUIT BY REPUBLIC BY OMER FAROOQ

38

Which international labels have you modelled

for?

EI: It was a long time ago but I have worked with

Indian fashion designer Ritu Kumar, and Dolce &

Gabbana in Dubai.

Why is it easier for models to switch to acting?

EI: I don’t think it is easier; it is quite hard. The

training of a model is unlike that of an actor. A

model is not popular to a mass audience. One

either sees him on the ramp or in a magazine.

Modelling is all about how you pose and style. He

is a silent mannequin, who appears to be perfect.

Acting, on the other hand, invokes curiosity; where

you are, where you have been and where you want

to see yourself in life. It is an exciting yet complex

world but you learn something new about it every

day.

The purpose of acting is not modelling for the

camera but becoming a di�erent character

altogether. Why do you think drama and film

producers bank on models to play powerful

characters?

EI: I don’t know – producers look for an actor as

far as I know. Your acting skill is your portfolio. If

they were to cast a model in a specific role, he or

she must have the required credentials in acting.

Let’s talk about Cheekh and its roaring

success. Do you feel that your role as Shayan

has helped Pakistani viewers, especially the

male demographic, better understand what

compassion and love are?

EI: That was actually one of my objectives. I can’t

speak for everyone. It may have a�ected a few

positively. Maybe others thought the opposite

of my role. If my acting has had an impact on

some people, it indicates that I have done justice

to my job. I had thought of di�erent ways to

make Shayan an inspiring character. Although

he belonged to the same household, he shared

di�erent values. He wanted to serve humanity

and treat people with utmost respect. He chose

not to give in to his family’s empire. He was a

self-made man with altruistic qualities. I tried

to incorporate the morals I carry with me in his

personality. Many of my male fans jokingly say

that I have created problems for them. They all

want to be like Shayan (Laughs).

Would you consider Cheekh to be your

breakthrough role?

EI: Absolutely, but it also took me six years doing

many roles that made me capable enough to

OK! PAKISTAN • 39

EMMAD WEARS AN EMBROIDERED BLACK TUXEDO BY MOHSIN NAVEED RANJHA AND SABA WEARS AN EMERALD GREEN SEQUENCE OUTFIT BY SEMSEM

“You can’t look

back once you

move forward.

One has to keep

on evolving.”

- Emmad Irfani

EMMAD IN A ROYAL MAROON VELVET TUXEDO, EMBROIDERED WITH

ZARDOSI AND MARORI WORK BY MOHSIN NAVEED RANJHA

42

SABA LOOKING STUNNING IN AN EMERALD GREEN CHIFFON OUTFIT BY SEMSEM

perform Shayan to my fullest potential.

In what ways has this project satisfied you?

EI: Our director Badar Mehmood and his vision

took this drama to new heights. I assume a

renewed responsibility with each role I undertake

as an actor because I am giving life to a character.

I should realise that my onscreen persona is not

a part of me but someone else. I have worked

extremely hard in that headspace. I have no

control over the outcome but what I do have

control over is an optimistic attitude that can

quantify my potential and eventually my results.

That said, I am quite satisfied to be a part of

Cheekh’s impactful story.

You are currently working on a new historical

film about the Khilafat movement titled Gawah

Rehna. Describe its plot and your character.

EI: I received a call from Tahir Mehmood, the

director of the film who was working in a Turkish

consulate in Istanbul. He had a constructive

script in mind for a feature film and explained the

storyline, conflicts and intertwining of characters.

Tahir sent me the script; it was in Roman Urdu,

which is challenging to read, especially on the

phone.

The script transported me to that bygone era

once I started reading it. I was pitched the role of

a confident young man who experiences turmoil

in life but rebuilds himself. I strongly believe that

the day you take charge of your life is the day you

graduate from childhood to adulthood. Gawah

Rehna is a story that needs to be told. As artists,

we are not communicating constructive stories

to the world and should take our jobs more

seriously.

Is this your debut film?

EI: Yes.

Who else is involved in the project?

EI: Our legendary artist Qavi Khan, Ghana Ali and

Rehan Nazim.

What other drama roles are you exploring?

EI: I try to play one character at a time. If I do

multiple roles and appear in three different

dramas, I am extracting the commercial value

out of it but I am not doing each character

justice. We recently began shooting for Gawah

Rehna.

Going further, will we see you pursue acting

more than modelling?

EI: When I ventured into acting, I left the

model side of me behind. It is now all about

the actor, Emmad Irfani. You can’t look back

once you move forward. One has to keep on

evolving.

What are some of your hobbies?

EI: My hobbies have become my work but I invest

a lot of time in sports. I enjoy music and movies

too.

Favourite menswear designer?

EI: Omar Farooq.

A�ordable or high-end fashion?

EI: Both work for me.

Describe Saba Qamar in one word.

EI: Hardworking.

The best travel destination, according to you?

EI: Bangkok.

Your lifetime goal?

EI: To be the best version of myself.

OK! PAKISTAN • 43

INTERVIEW: HAIDER RIFAATPHOTOGRAPHY: ABDULLAH HARIS

STYLING AND COORDINATION: RAO ALI KHAN JEWELLERY: ROUGE BY ROOJ AMIR

MAKE-UP & HAIR FOR SABA: FATIMA NASIR GROOMING FOR EMMAD : TONY & GUY NORTH PAKISTAN -

SHAMMAL QURESHI

SABA IN A GOLD SEQUENCE GOWN BY SHEHLA CHATOOR AND EMMAD IN A PLAIN WHITE SHIRT BY REPUBLIC BY OMER FAROOQ

“If my acting has

had an impact

on some people,

it indicates that

I have done

justice to my

job.”

- Emmad Irfani

The award-winning actress on her new film, Zombieland,

dealing with her anxiety, her love for acting, and her determination

to succeed

Acting is something that helped me overcome a lot of my

anxiety and doubts in life

STONEemma

46

Emma Stone is once again back on the big

screen with Zombieland: Double Tap, the

sequel to the 2009 original that would go

on to become a cult favourite. Ten years

later, Stone returns to her role as Wichita, part of

the zombie-killing crew that includes Columbus

(Jesse Eisenberg), Tallahassee (Woody Harrelson),

and Little Rock (Abigail Breslin) who have formed

a makeshift family in the aftermath of the zombie

attacks that brought them together a decade

earlier. Double Tap also features a slew of new cast

members that includes Zoey Deutch, Avan Jogia,

Rosario Dawson, Luke Wilson, Dan Aykroyd and

Thomas Middleditch (Silicon Valley).

“I love being back with everyone,” Stone said of her

return to Zombieland duty. “It feels so good getting

to hang out with my buddies again.”

With the zombie apocalypse still upon them,

family Stone and co. will need to draw upon all

their resources in order to quell the walking dead.

Along the way, audiences will be treated to more

serio-comic scenes of zombies being shredded

en masse as the battle unfolds. In the intervening

years, the zombie population has mushroomed

and civilization is in ruins.

For her part. Stone has fond memories of her

original Zombieland experience, and recalled how

co-star Woody Harrelson would kid her about her

husky Lauren Bacall voice. Stone had no idea what

he was talking about: “On Zombieland Woody

started calling me Betty, which was Lauren Bacall’s

real name. He’s like, ‘You sound like Betty.’ [Laughs]

And I was like, ‘Who is Betty?’ And he said, ‘Betty

Bacall.’ And so I looked her up, and I found the High

Point commercial. And it became our favourite. I

mean, Woody can do the whole commercial, too.

It’s so damn good. She opens up the curtains and

says, ‘My favorite time of day is night.’” [Laughs]

The 30-year-old Emma Stone is one of Hollywood’s

leading actresses. She won the Best Actress Oscar

for her enchanting performance in 2016’s critically-

acclaimed La La Land and earned rave reviews for

her work in The Favourite, the Oscar-nominated

drama in which she played Abigail, an ambitious

chambermaid in the employ of her Royal cousin,

Olivia Colman’s Queen Anne.

Stone lives in Los Angeles with her boyfriend of the

past year, Dave McCary, a former SNL writer who

now directs segments for the hit NBC late night

comedy show. They are rumoured to be engaged.

After turning 30 last November, Stone was asked

what lessons she had learned thus far in life. She

replied: “It’s okay if not everybody likes you. That

was a major lesson, not falling over myself to win

over the unwinnable. Nobody knows what they’re

doing! We’re all just a bunch of people trying to

figure out how to get through the day.”

With regard to becoming a zombie-blasting

warrior, Stone observes how Zombieland was the

first time she had ever been called to fire a gun: “I

hadn’t shot a gun before. In one scene I got to butt

a zombie in the head with the back of my shotgun,

and it was kind of horrifying and terrible...I went

to the gun range and learned how to shoot guns.

That was pretty interesting, getting to shoot all

the di¦erent guns and learn about the safety of

weapons.” [Laughs]

You made your mark as an actress at a fairly

young age?

ES: Even as a child I knew that I wanted to act. I

couldn’t imagine any other life for me. I grew up

wanting to make movies similar to those I loved

watching so much. I lived in a very hot place

(Arizona) and because the sun was so strong and

I had such light skin I had to stay inside a lot of the

time.

As a child I discovered that film was this parallel

world into which I could dive into. I still remember

all the film comedies I would watch on TV with

my father. That’s how I started to watch movies

all the time and wanted to be part of that world.

And it’s been such an incredible joy for me to have

been able to work as much as I have and fulfill that

dream.

You’ve spoken in the past that acting had a

calming and almost therapeutic e�ect on you?

ES: Acting is something that helped me overcome

a lot of my anxiety and doubts in life. I was an

introverted child, pimply and I su¦ered from panic

attacks. The theater allowed me to live in a world

of my own: on stage my problems vanished.

Did you have any favourite comic actors?

ES: I was a big fan of Steve Martin and also of Bill

Murray. I loved watching the skits from Saturday

Night Live and I’ve always had a natural a§nity

for comedies. I got to work with Bill Murray on

Zombieland and then again on Aloha. He was so

great to me on that film. I wasn’t feeling that well

on the set and almost every day he would bring me

these little gifts. He was so great.

You arrived in L.A. with your mother to pursue

your career when you were only 15. How tough

was it for you in the beginning?

ES: I lived with my mother in a small apartment in

La Brea Park. I never went out by myself. I would

always go out with my mom and we spent a lot of

time going to the movies. I wasn’t going to school

and I didn’t have any friends, zero social life, and I

basically just studied at home and watched a lot

of movies and tried to learn as much about acting

as I could.

Sometimes I felt lonely but my mother was so good

and supportive so I felt very safe and supported

THOMAS MIDDLEDITCH, AVAN JOGIA, ROSARIO DAWSON, WOODY HARRELSON, EMMA STONE, JESSE EISENBERG, ABIGAIL BRESLIN AND ZOEY DEUTCH ATTEND THE PREMIERE OF “ZOMBIELAND DOUBLE

TAP” IN CALIFORNIA

OK! PAKISTAN • 47

It’s been such an incredible joy for me to have been able to work as much as I have.

EMMA STONE ATTENDS THE 90TH ANNUAL ACADEMY AWARDS AT

HOLLYWOOD & HIGHLAND CENTER IN CALIFORNIA

48

I’m a very vulnerable person. It’s

easy for me to feel hurt.

EMMA STONE AT THE MANIAC PREMIERE IN NEW YORK

OK! PAKISTAN • 49

and that gave me the confidence I needed to go to

auditions and deal with all the rejection and the

fear of not being able to make it. But I never gave

up and slowly I was able to build my career.

You’ve spoken in the past about how your voice,

which is now your trademark in some ways, was

your biggest obstacle when you were starting

out?

ES: (Laughs) Nobody wanted to hire a 15-year-

old actress with a deep and raspy voice. I sounded

much older than I looked and I hated my voice at

the time. But in another way I was glad I sounded

older because I never liked the idea of being a child.

I was a precocious child and I couldn’t wait to be an

adult. And at one point my voice really began to fit

with who I am.

When you were trying to establish yourself

in Hollywood, how determined were you to

succeed?

ES: Your teenage years can often be very di­cult,

but I was very lucky that I knew that as soon as I

started doing it that this was what I wanted to do

with my life. So that gave me a lot of drive and

ambition.

But even after you start getting bigger parts and

you’re getting more and more recognition you

never really feel secure. You’re always worried

about getting the next good role or how your last

film did.

I think that acting is the kind of profession where

you’re always a bit worried about the future. You

can be playing in one great film after another

and still feel anxious about being able to find the

same kinds of good roles. That’s the nature of the

business.

So success hasn’t cured your anxieties?

ES: Success hasn’t solved them for me at all!

I always thought: “Once I grow up I will have

everything under control, I won’t suffer from

those fears and worries anymore. But that

never really happened. Today I deal with things

differently, but fear and anxiety will always be

a part of me. Basically they’ve made me who I

am: a warrior. I haven’t slept through the whole

night for five years, but I know I’m not the only

one...

Life asks you to make painful choices. We all

need to find balance and I’m working on it.

It also helps me to have my younger brother

around who’s very close to me. He is the most

grounded human being I have ever known and

whenever I feel lost he manages to calm me and

bring me down to earth with his intelligence and

humour.

You bring so much sensitivity to your work. Is

that your greatest strength as an actress?

ES: I’m a very vulnerable person. It’s easy for me

to feel hurt. But that’s also what enables me to be

very expressive and I hope convey deep emotions

as truthfully as possible. I have a pretty good

sense of humour about myself even if I can be

very self-critical at times. But that’s how I push

myself to do the best work I’m capable of and to

give my best.

And whatever personal qualities I’m able to bring

to my characters, whether it’s my loud laugh, my

hoarse voice, or my unpredictable nature, I owe a

lot to Diane Keaton who has been such a major

influence on me and once told me that I should

just be myself and not worry about what anyone

else thinks.

Fear and anxiety will always be a part of me. Basically they’ve made me who I am: a warrior.

INTERVIEW: WENNPHOTOGRAPHS: GETTY

“I believe perseverance, discipline, and grit are what make things happen”

OK! Pakistan speaks to the multi-faceted

Kiran Chaudhry about all the aspects of her

entrepreneurship, style, mentors, and more!

ChaudhryKiran

Kiran Chaudhry’s career can be

best described as a dizzying

journey, full of gumption,

curiosity and daring. From

her time reading Philosophy,

Economics and Politics at

Oxford, to her recent foray into

the world of fashion with her brand Anaya, hers

is a gifted and profuse vision. As a musician, the

remarkable success of Club Caramel propelled her

to theatre and film, where she made a mark with

her characteristic brand of glamour. Her presence

across all her fields of interest is marked for its

sensibility, a certain kind of vintage allure and a

braininess behind the zeal. Now, settled in India,

with her husband, Riyaaz Amlani, Kiran is the

mother of two children, all while maintaining a

business across Pakistan and abroad.

You’ve worn many hats during the span of an

illustrious career including those of a lawyer,

musician, vocalist, actor, fashion entrepreneur

etc. How do these various roles present

themselves in your life today? Which one would

you say was life-altering for you?

Kiran Chaudhry: I have indeed worn many hats and

if I had to go back and do it all over again, I wouldn’t

change a thing. I feel the one common thread in all

these roles is that of creativity. Whether it is writing

arguments to defend your client in the course

of a litigation, or building a brand from scratch

as an entrepreneur, writing a song, or designing

an outfit - all these are essentially creative and

artistic pursuits. I feel, as an artist, one is always

hungry for inspiration and new experience, and so

my path has evolved over time as have I. A solid

mainstream career, and working in a law firm in

London is what has given me my work ethic, solid

negotiation skills, and the ability to be focused

and detail-driven. After leaving London, I pursued

music and acting for sometime because it had

always been a dream as a child and it felt good to

finally realise it. However, while I enjoyed life as a

performing artist, in the end it did not satisfy my

intellectual side and I felt something was missing.

I then turned to business for the challenge and

growth opportunities it presented and have

loved every minute. The most life-altering career

choice would definitely be turning to music and

with the benefit of hindsight, it was perhaps less

about actually becoming a musician, but more

about proving to myself that I could be absolutely

anything I wanted to be. There were really no limits

and anything was possible if you put your mind to

it and gave it everything you’ve got. This made me

fearless and was an important life lesson.

As the lead singer of Club Caramel, you

interpreted classic and contemporary western

music and also produced and wrote hit singles.

What factors do you think played a crucial role

in the unique success of Club Caramel? Do you

think that the current music scene is missing a

band like Caramel?

KC: Well, authenticity and passion are what make

a success of anything. We had that in spades.

We were doing what we loved with no regard for

anything else - commercial success was never

the agenda. That’s a very powerful energy and it

creates magic. When you do what you love, what

makes you happy, you’re a delight to watch for

others also. That’s why I think people loved Club

Caramel. It was an unabashed celebration of

life and living and the energy was infectious. The

music scene mostly has either purely commercial

acts or totally underground ones so this niche is

somewhat missing. We were an entertainment act.

It was about the experience more than anything

else, so that did make us quite unique.

You received vocal training with Ustad Nusrat

52

OK! PAKISTAN • 53

“I have indeed worn many hats

and if I had to go back and do it

all over again, I wouldn’t change

a thing.”

Fateh Ali Khan while still in your teens, and have

acted for screen and stage as well. In all the

collaborations that you have undertaken for

these forms, which ones had the most lasting

impact on you and why? What are your most

fondly held memories from these encounters?

KC: I would say the stage was my personal

favourite. I played the lead role in a local

production of “Mamma Mia” and the combination

of being able to sing, act and dance on stage all

at the same time, while storytelling was absolutely

exhilarating. The fact that it’s all done live and you

take the audience on a journey with you in the

present moment - there is no other feeling like it in

the world. It’s truly joyful and intensely gratifying.

You may not get the eyeballs and fame of TV but

as an experience, a live performance of this type

is unparalleled. I think I was most intensely myself

doing musical theatre.

Your creativity across various disciplines has

always been lauded for marked attention to

detail and a certain meticulousness. From

where do you derive this ethic? Do you think

it is familial, personal or were there any key

mentors who guided you along the way?

KC: I am detail-oriented by nature but would

definitely say my father has also instilled this in

me. He’s very meticulous in all matters and has

been my primary influence in career matters so

I would say it’s a bit of nature and nurture. I do

believe that it’s impossible to aspire to greatness

in any field without attention to detail.

You’ve reiterated the importance of

individuality and being true to yourself in

numerous interviews. Do you think growing up

in Lahore you perhaps felt directed towards

archetypal roles for women? If so, do you think

things have changed for the better?

KC: We all need to discover our passions and

talents, especially as artists, and I feel it’s a journey

where one has to try their hand at many things

before one discovers what they really want to

make their life’s work. Growing up in Lahore was

great. It’s a somewhat traditional society but I was

fortunate to have been raised in a very progressive

family and left home for boarding school as early

as 16, which was quite unusual for girls at that

time. This made me quite independent early in life

and I think developed the inner confidence and

individuality that’s required to carve out a path of

your own.

You hold an important vantage point in having

a base in India along with running a fashion

business across the two countries. The arts,

in particular the entertainment and fashion

industries, have provided a much needed

bridge between the two nations in the past.

Despite the dire political situation currently, do

“Club Caramel

was an unabashed

celebration of life

and living and

the energy was

infectious.”

54

you think that there is still a fruitful exchange

possible for artists between the two nations?

KC: Art knows no boundaries. We are the same

in so many ways. The culture of north India and

Pakistan is very similar, and the possibilities for

collaboration are immense. We speak the same

language, have the same culture, especially

regionally (for example the Punjab is the same on

both sides of the border). So fruitful exchange is

not only possible, it’s already happening at many

levels. I do believe that one day things will change

and we will see petty politics take a back seat

and economic imperatives take precedence. The

sheer advantages for each country to tap into the

market size of the other are too great to ignore.

France and England used to be arch enemies

during the colonial period and became trading

partners within an economic area later. So change

is possible and likely as we mature as nations and

resolve core conflict issues.

As a successful entrepreneur , with your most

recent venture, Anaya by Kiran Chaudhry,

what advice would you give to budding

entrepreneurs? What personal attributes and

skills, do you think have helped you most on

your journey?

KC: Well I don’t think I’m in any position to give

advice just yet, as I am still very much in the process

of learning and figuring things out myself! But

generally as an entrepreneur, I think you always see

opportunity, and I believe perseverance, discipline,

and grit are what make things happen. Nothing is

possible without hard work and I believe that is the

secret to success.

Which contemporary fashion designers (both

local and international) do you most admire

and enjoy wearing?

KC: I am quite simple in the way I dress.

Internationally I am more of a high street person

and wear a lot of Karen Millen. Locally I wear

Kamiar Rokni a lot. We have grown up together

and I’ve always been a huge fan of his work. He’s

dressed me since we were kids.

What improvements do you think need to be

made on the local fashion scene? What do you

think are the relative strengths of Pakistan

designers? Do you think our fashion industry

should be projected more on the world stage?

KC: Our fashion industry is one of our most highly

developed industries and is already projected

worldwide very positively. It’s a great way to

project our culture of artistry and craft to the

world at large and so I believe it is one of our

most important cultural exports. What’s quite

often lacking is the organisational aspect as

most designers are self-employed and funding

is scarce. I believe that big business has to back

fashion for it to grow into its true potential and

the marriage of big textile houses with designers

in the retail space is a powerful development with

huge potential.

What’s next for you? Are there any future

projects on the horizon?

KC: Well we just entered retail with our first store in

Lahore and also launched our debut couture bridal

collection. These are bold new territories for us and

will require tremendous focus over the next few

years. But we believe strongly in our commitment

to bringing the best to our clients at an a�ordable

price point and we hope that will remain the secret

to our success going forward InshAllah.

INTERVIEW: AFSHAN SHAFIPHOTOGRAPHS: COURTESY OF KIRAN CHAUDHRY

“I am detail-

oriented by

nature.”

OK! PAKISTAN • 55

The Crown Star, Gillian Anderson, on fighting inequality, her big break

and playing Margaret Thatcher

I write a gratitude list every night!

ANDERSONGILLIAN

58

With The Crown set to return for a

third season, the Netflix original

series has welcomed a host of new

stars to its royal ranks. Among them

is esteemed actress Gillian Anderson OBE, who

plays former Prime Minister Margaret Thatcher, a

character she describes as “absolutely fascinating”.

Her latest role also sees her work with long-term

boyfriend Peter Morgan, the show’s creator. Gillian,

51, recently said that dating someone in the same

industry is refreshing, explaining: “I’m constantly

grateful for the symbiosis because I haven’t had

that experience before.”

Channelling one of the most powerful women in

British history will no doubt

have come easy to the star,

whose lengthy CV has seen

her play a variety of strong

women. Gillian shot to

fame in 1993 as Agent Dana

Scully in The X-Files, and

has since revealed: “I think

I was about to be fired by

my agency just before that

role came.” She played the

iconic part for nine years,

but it wasn’t until series

three that she negotiated an

equal salary with her male

co-star David Duchovny. In

2016 the sci-fi drama was

given a reboot and Gillian

reprised her role following

yet another pay battle after she was unbelievably

o�ered 50 per cent less than David.

“I think my agent may have just put down the

phone. We knew what he was being o�ered, and

we knew what I was being o�ered,” she explains. “It

just became: ‘Don’t talk to us until it’s parity.’”

Inequality is not something Gillian tolerates, having

campaigned for the rights of women, children and

animals. She also recently co-wrote a book titled

We: A Manifesto For Women Everywhere.

Born in Chicago, Gillian spent a brief spell in the

UK before returning to the US aged 11. She began

therapy at 14 and has said of her mental health:

‘There were times when it was really bad… where

I haven’t wanted to leave the house.’ For the

past 15 years, London has been her home.

She’s mum to daughter Piper, 25, from her first

marriage to Clyde Klotz, and to sons Oscar,

13, and Felix, 11, from her relationship with

businessman Mark Gri£ths.

“I love my children more than anything in the

world,” says The Fall star. “When I’m with

PETER MORGAN, GILLIAN ANDERSON & MICHAEL LUMPKIN ATTEND

‘THE CROWN’ PREMIERE AT AFI FEST 2019 IN CALIFORNIA

world,” says

OK! PAKISTAN • 59

I’ve spent a lot of my life being a bit of a loner and a bit of a hermit, and that’s my preferred state of being.

GILLIAN ANDERSON AT THE GLAMOUR ‘WOMEN OF THE YEAR’

AWARDS IN ENGLAND

60

GILLIAN ANDERSON ATTENDS THE OLIVIER AWARDS WITH

MASTERCARD AT THE ROYAL ALBERT HALL IN LONDON

OK! PAKISTAN • 61

them I’m happiest.” However she admits parenting

is ‘hard’ and says happiness is something she has

learned to find. “I go through stages where I think

I’ve finally got it balanced and everything’s alright.

Then a month will go by of complete chaos and

insanity, and I think, what happened? It’s really hard

to keep it up and we need to practise forgiveness of

ourselves for being human.”

GILLIAN ANDERSON ON:

Politics

“I don’t want to get into a discussion about Trump

or about Brexit or any of that – I feel it’s best left

to people who really understand the very, very

complex issues… I have opinions, but I don’t think

my opinions are more valid because I’m an actor

and have more of a platform than others.”

Supporting other women

“I do feel like a woman’s woman, and I go out of my

way to be one. And actually I get so shocked and

shaken when I come across women who aren’t. It

really unsettles me.”

Being a loner

“I think because I was an only child for so long, I

don’t like to share. I’ve spent a lot of my life being

a bit of a loner and a bit of a hermit, and that’s my

preferred state of being.”

Her transatlantic accent

“It’s near impossible for me to stick with the British

accent in America. I can go a little way with the

American accent here, but not if I’m surrounded by

Brits. I end up sounding like a mid-Atlantic Euro-

trash twat.”

Ageing

“One goes through stages. I did a job once where

I felt like the oldest person in the make-up trailer,

and I literally cried for two days afterwards. I was

grieving my youth, wondering where it had gone.

I didn’t even feel like I was present when it was

there. It’s really shi**y. But then it becomes about

embracing what you’ve got, and so much is great

about this age.”

Being grateful

“I write a gratitude list every night. I mean, it’s in my

head now, but I go through stages where I think I’m

just complaining all the time again. It needs to be

on paper.”

FEATURE: KATIE LANGFORD-FOSTERPHOTOGRAPHS: GETTY

SIMON CALLOW, MANISH DAYAL, GILLIAN ANDERSON, GURINDER CHADHA, HUMA QURESHI & HUGH BONNEVILLE ATTEND THE ‘VICEROY’S HOUSE’ PREMIERE DURING THE 67TH BERLINALE INTERNATIONAL FILM FESTIVAL IN GERMANY

GILLIAN ANDERSON AND ACTOR DAVID DUCHOVNY ATTEND THE PREMIERE OF FOX’S ‘THE X-FILES’ AT CALIFORNIA SCIENCE CENTER IN CALIFORNIA

Now Available on iTunes & Google Play

DOWNLOAD YOUR DIGITAL ISSUE

Go to the App Store and search for OK! Pakistan

Follow us @OK_Pakistan facebook.com/okmagazine.pk@OKPakistan

OK! PAKISTAN • 65

OK! Best DRESSED

Jessica Alba looks va

va voom in a dazzling

Ralph & Russo gown

paired with a Jimmy

Choo bag at the

Baby2Baby Gala.

Dua Lipa looks

radiant in a hot

pink Miu Miu

gown paired with

Bvlgari jewels at

the AMA’s.

Zendaya Coleman looks

cool as a cucumber

in a cut-out dress by

Christoper Esber at

the E! People’s Choice

Awards.

OK! Red CARPET

66

Taylor Swift shines

in a custom Julien

Macdonald dress and

thigh-high boots at

the AMA’s.

Ella Balinska dons a

custom Prada gown to

the Charlie’s Angels

premiere in London.

Selena Gomez looks

haute in a Versace

mini dress and Stuart

Weitzman shoes at

the AMA’s.

CARPET ROCKSTARS

Gigi Hadid shows

o� her svelte figure

in a Helmut Lang

shimmery dress at

the CMA Awards.

Hannah Brown

gives o� princess

vibes in Atelier

Zuhra at the CMA

Awards.

Karolina Kurkova

mixes metallics

and looks totally

chic in this Thom

Browne look.

OK! PAKISTAN • 67

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From glitzy dresses to OTT puffy jackets, the season’s diverse looks make it easy to dress for a night out. Sequins paired with combat

boots, strong prints and boxy blazers are all you need to dress up and step out into the night.

INTO THE NIGHT

OUTFIT: QUIZ

BOOTS: TOPSHOP

PHOTOGRAPHY: MHM

STYLING: AARINDA NOOR

HAIR AND MAKEUP: SALEHA AT MHM

MODEL: ZARA ABID

OUTFIT: HIRA ALI

SHOES: STYLIST’S OWN

OUTFIT: HIRA ALI

OUTFIT: MANGO (AK GALLERIA)

THINK PINKThe Think Pink Ball in aid of

Cancer Research UK held at the

Rosewood London organized

by EBH brought together

entrepreneurs and professionals to

support the cause.

The night consisted of a

presentation of couturier Manish

Malhotra’s latest collection

followed by live comedy, a

Fashion Against Cancer auction

featuring pieces by local Pakistani

designers and more. 74

PHOTOGRAPHS: SHAHID MALIK

EBH presented its 15th annual THINK

PINK Ball in aid of Cancer Research

UK on Saturday 9th November

2019 at Rosewood London, bringing

together business figures, entrepreneurs and

professionals, united to support the worthy

cause.

Set against the elegant backdrop of

Rosewood London, every element of the

event was themed pink. The THINK PINK

Ball commenced with Pink Champagne and

Canapés Reception followed by an evening of

sumptuous dining, world-class entertainment

and live comedy.

The fashion show presented the latest

collection by designer Manish Malhotra. Couturier,

costume stylist, entrepreneur and revivalist,

Malhotra’s prolific career spanning 29 years has

seen him redefine fashion for an entire generation

in India. An avid Bollywood film enthusiast and

friend to the industry’s glitterati, he has brought

his inimitable aesthetic to costume design and

styling for the country’s leading actors and style

icons. Founder of the eponymous label, Manish

Malhotra is known in the Bollywood industry for

his pathbreaking makeover of the leading actors

THE THINK PINKBALL 2019

cause.

SAIRA SHAKIRA (PRESENTED BY RANIA ZARA)

on the silver screen and influencing

an individual style narrative in their

personal and public lives.

A Fashion Against Cancer

auction segment featured pieces donated by

leading luminaries from the international fashion

landscape such as Manish Malhotra, Umar

Sayeed, Rana Noman, Saira Shakira presented by

Rania Zara, Sania Maskatiya, Sana Safinaz, Satya

Paul, Masaba Gupta, Tarun Tahiliani presented by

BIBI London, Delphi, Mahgul, Nida Asad Tapal and

shoes by Lucy Choi. The evening culminated in live

DJ and dance and an open bar and pink tea chai

stall courtesy of Chaiwalla.

Speaking onstage, event organiser and

Founder, EBH, Hajira Ahmed said, “Fun, tears, hope

and joy and lots of PINK along the way. We have

had ten very PINK months of planning the THINK

PINK Ball. As we all know cancer has no race, no

religion and no boundaries. Cancer a�ects us

all. My greatest inspiration for organising THINK

PINK events has always been and will be both

my beloved parents. Today we honour those we

have lost to cancer and celebrate those who are

fighting cancer.”

SANA SAFINAZ

SANIA

MASKATIYA

UMAR SAYEED RANA NOMAN

MAGHUL

OK! PAKISTAN • 77

HIGH VOLTAGEBack-to-back parties, weddings, special-occasion dinners mean festive season is upon us like no other! Ensure you’re party-ready with an utterly fabulous dress and catchy accessories. Check out the season’s most statement-making, high shine pieces for every kind of party.

NIC

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OK! Fashion EDIT

78

River Island Metallic Mini

Dress,

PKR 10,000

Aquazzura Wild Fringe 105

Sandals,

PKR 190,000

Christopher Kane Pleated Lamé Skirt,

PKR 80,000

Attico Draped Mini

Dress,

PKR 80,000

Bershka

Iridescent

Dress,

PKR 7,500

Jennifer Behr Eleanor Headband,

PKR 60,000

Attico Silk Pouch,

PKR 80,000

Loeffler Randall Marina Headband,

PKR 10,000

Emily Levine Tribbie Satin

Clutch,

PKR 50,000

H&M

Sequined

Dress,

PKR 6,500

Mia-Iam Cropped

Trousers,

PKR 16,000

Markoo Side Blouse,

PKR 58,000

Jimmy Choo Saphia 85

Pumps,

PKR 130,000

Off-White

Jitney Clutch

Bag,

PKR 130,000

NK Skirt,

PKR 55,000

Halpern Draped

Sequined

Tulle Dress,

PKR 350,000

Topshop Sequin Midi

Dress,

PKR 6,500

STOCKISTS: AQUAZZURA, ATTICO, EMILY LEVINE, HALPERN, JENNIFER BEHR, JIMMY CHOO, LOEFFLER RANDALL, PRADA, RIXOS, ROTATE BIRGER CHRISTENSEN www.netaporter.com; BERSHKA www.bershka.

com; CHRISTOPHER KANE, MARKOO, MIA-IAM, NK, OFF-WHITE, PACO RABANNE, ROSANTICA, SAINT LAURENT www.farfetch.com; H&M www.hm.com; PULL & BEAR www.pullandbear.com; RIVER ISLAND www.

riverisland.com; TOPSHOP www.topshop.com; ZARA www.zara.com; REGINA PYO www.modaoperandi.com; prices are approximate

OK! PAKISTAN • 79

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Pull & Bear Dress with

Draped Detail,

PKR 3,000

Rotate Birger CHRISTENSEN

Lamé Mini Dress,

PKR 35,000

Rosantica Kingham

Bracelet Bag,

PKR 100,000

Jimmy Choo Cloud Clutch,

PKR 300,000

Asos Design Embellished

Sandals,

PKR 8,000

Paco Rabanne Comet Bag,

PKR 70,000

Topshop Satin

Headband,

PKR 1,500

Regina Pyo Kayla Lamé Top,

PKR 70,000

Zara Metallic

Cigarette

Pants,

PKR 6,000

Prada 65 Suede Mules,

PKR 140,000

River Island Silver Wrap Top,

PKR 8,000

Rixos Emmy Midi

Dress,

PKR 70,000

Saint Laurent Disco Mini Dress,

PKR 350,000

Prada Embellished

Pumps,

PKR 150,000

Bershka Jacket with

Sequins,

PKR 8,500

Zara

Metallic Top,

PKR 5,000

Saint LaurentTasseled Plexiglas clutch,

PKR 360,000

Pull & Bear Sequinned

Stretch Top,

PKR 2,500

STOCKISTS: MARNI www.marni.com; GIEVES & HAWKES www.gievesandhawkes.com; ZARA www.zara.com; MAGNANNI www.magnanni.com; SANTONI www.santonishoes.com; CITIZENS OF

HUMANITY www.citizensofhumanity.com; ASPESI www.aspesi.com; SALVATORE SANTORO www.salvatoresantoro.com; GUCCI www.gucci.com; prices are approximate

OK! Style CRUSH

80

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GETTHELOOK

DAVID GANDY One of Britain’s top male models, David Gandy is a not only a sight for sore

eyes but he’s also always immaculately dressed. You may remember his washboard abs, chiselled cheekbones and blue eyes from Dolce & Gabbana’s Light Blue scent campaign. A few years later, his sartorial choices have landed

him on our style crush spot.

SALVATORE

SANTORO

Distressed Shirt

Jacket,

PKR 85,300

SANTONI

Lace Up Shoes,

PKR 115,000

ASPESI

Basic Shirt,

PKR 18,200

MARNI

Cargo Trousers.

PKR 62,500

GIEVES & HAWKES

Polo Shirt.

PKR 39,000

CITIZENS OF

HUMANITY

Stonewashed Jeans,

PKR 59,000

GUCCI

Square-Frame Gold

Tone Sunglasses,

PKR 52,300

MAGNANNI

Double Buckle

Shoes,

PKR 60,900

DAVID GANDY DAVID GANDY DAVID GANDY DAVID GANDY

STOCKISTS: ALDO www.aldoshoes.com; DIANE VON FURSTENBERG, SIMONE ROCHA, STUART WEITZMAN, ZIMMERMAN www.netaporter.com; DSQUARED2, NILI LOTAN, PATRIZIA PEPE www.farfetch.

com; prices are approximate

OK! Style CRUSH

82

GETTHELOOK

KAIA GERBER With over 4.9 million Instagram followers, 18-year-old model Kaia Gerber is a force to be reckoned with. Kaia, daughter of former supermodel Cindy Crawford has in the shortest span of time has attained supermodel status herself. While her modelling career has left us in awe, we laud her for her

fashion choices this month.

ZIMMERMANN

Honour Mini Dress,

PKR 100,000

SIMONE ROCHA

Ru�ed Tulle Blouse,

PKR 70,000

PATRIZIA

PEPE

Faux-Leather

Mini,

PKR 24,000

NILI LOTAN

Angelina Gilet,

PKR 150,000

DIANE VON

FURSTENBERG

Chainlink Sandals,

PKR 35,000

KAIA GERBER KAIA GERBER

DSQUARED2

Madonna Pendant

Necklace,

PKR 40,000

ALDO

Jaborosa

PKR 1,800

STUART

WEITZMAN

NearlyNude Sandals,

PKR 55,000

OK! Men’s EDIT

SWEATER WEATHER Keep it easy and

cosy like actor Jake

Gyllenhaal and

stock up on some

fun, statement

sweaters.

STOCKISTS: MISSONI www.missoni.com; JW ANDERSON www.jwanderson.com; SAINT LAURENT www.ysl.com; ZARA www.zara.com; RIVER ISLAND www.riverisland.com; OFF-WHITE www.o�---white.com;

RAG & BONE www.rag-bone.com; HUGO BOSS www.hugoboss.com; DSQUARED www.dsquared2.com; KOCHE www.koche.fr; KENZO www.kenzo.com; BERSHKA www.bershka.com; H&M www.hm.com;

prices are approximate

84

HUGO BOSS

Coventry Suede Chukka

Boots,

PKR 60,000

BERSHKA

Sweater with

Ombre,

PKR 5,000

H&M

Jacquard-Knit

Sweater,

PKR 1,500

ZARA

Fringed Argyle

Jacquard

Sweater,

PKR 18,400

OFF-WHITE

Embroidered Cotton

Jersey Sweater,

PKR 72,500

JW

ANDERSON

Ruched Stripe

Jumper,

PKR 57,200

ZARA

Jacquard Sweater,

PKR 9,300

SAINT

LAURENT

Striped

Sweater,

PKR 131,800

KENZO

Tiger Wool Jumper,

PKR 69,800

RIVER ISLAND

Knit Crew Neck

Jumper,

PKR 6,000

RAG & BONE

Slim-Fit

Denim Jeans,

PKR 32,200

KOCHE

Patchwork

Knitted Jumper,

PKR 56,200

DSQUARED

2 Deer Logo

Jumper,

PKR 70,000

MISSONI

Knitted Stripe Jumper,

PKR 44,600

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@AMARAKASH LOOKS LOVELY IN RED AT A WEDDING IN LAHORE

@KIRAN.MALIKOFFICIAL WOWS

IN FARAZ MANAN PAIRED WITH

NEEMAR JEWELS

@HTAREEN LOOKS CHIC IN

A FLORAL SAREE

@MAIRAAA_P STANDS OUT IN SHEHLA CHATOOR AT A WEDDING IN LAHORE

@SADAFKANWAL IS

ELEGANT IN A NIDA

AZWER SAREE

SANA HASHWANI, SAFINAZ MUNEER AND RUBAB ARIF OF TEAM @SANASAFINAZOFFICIAL RADIATE GLAMOUR AT SANA’S DAUGHTER’S WEDDING

@Z.MALIK_NICHE STUNS IN A

TRADITIONAL RIZWAN BEYG OUTFIT

@WAJIHAIMRAN LOOKS LOVELY IN SHEHLA CHATOOR & AMINA MUADDI SHOES

It’s o�cially wedding season and OK! Pakistan’s roving eye brings you some of the best festive looks.

@ANUSHAMAR AND FAMILY DAZZLE AT A WEDDING IN LAHORE

#OKStreetstyle

STOCKISTS: BVLGARI www.bvlgari.com; CARTIER www.cartier.com; CHAUMET www.chaumet.com; DE GRISOGONO www.degrisogono.com; DIOR www.dior.com; HARRY WINSTON www.harrywinston.com; HERMÈS www.hermes.com; HUBLOT www.hublot.com; IWC www.iwc.com; JAEGER-LECOULTRE www.jaeger-lecoultre.com; VAN CLEEF & ARPELS www.vancleefarpels.com; ZENITH www.zenith-watches.com.

Sporty, colourful yet chic as ever, invest in a luxe leather strap to up the ante this month.

OK! Jewellery EDIT

Watch Out!

STOCKISTS: BVLGARI www.bvlgari.com; CARTIER www.cartier.com; CHAUMET www.chaumet.com; DE GRISOGONO www.degrisogono.com; DIOR www.dior.com; HARRY WINSTON www.harrywinston.com; HERMÈS www.hermes.com; HUBLOT www.hublot.com; IWC www.iwc.com; JAEGER-LECOULTRE www.jaeger-lecoultre.com; VAN CLEEF & ARPELS www.vancleefarpels.com; ZENITH www.zenith-watches.com. STOCKISTS: BVLGARI www.bvlgari.com; CARTIER www.cartier.com; CHAUMET www.chaumet.com; DE GRISOGONO www.degrisogono.com; DIOR www.dior.com; HARRY WINSTON www.harrywinston.com;

BVLGARI Lucea Watch

DE GRISOGONOAllegra Watch

HUBLOT Big Bang

Moonphase Watch

IWC Da Vinci Watch

DIOR Grand Soir

Botanic Watch

HARRY WINSTON

Avenue Classic Watch

ZENITH Elite

Moonphase Watch

DIOR La D de Dior Montaigne

Watch

HERMÈS Fleurs du Mexique

Watch

JAEGER-LECOULTRE Rendez-Vous

Sonatina Watch

VAN CLEEF & ARPELS

Lady Arpels Watch

BVLGARI Serpenti

Karung Watch

CHAUMET Hortensia

Eden Watch

STOCKISTS: BVLGARI www.bvlgari.com; CARTIER www.cartier.com; CHAUMET www.chaumet.com; DE GRISOGONO www.degrisogono.com; DIOR www.dior.com; HARRY WINSTON www.harrywinston.com;

CARTIER Tortue Watch

LOOK GITI ARA

STOCKISTS: SMASHBOX www.smashbox.com; DIOR www.dior.com; TOM FORD www.tomford.com; PATRICK TA www.patrickta.com; NATASHA DENONA www.natashadenona.com; HOURGLASS www.hourglasscosmetics.com; ANASTASIA BEVERLY HILLS www.anastasiabeverlyhills.com; FENTY BEAUTY RIHANNA www.fentybeauty.com; BOBBI BROWN www.bobbibrowncosmetics.com;prices are approximate

During PFDC Bridal Week model Giti Ara walked down

the ramp in metallic lids, sculpted cheekbones with

glossy lips – a perfect look for the bridal season ahead.

Invest in these products to own the look!

90

GETTHE

Add some

shimmer to your

lips with the

FENTY BEAUTY

BY RIHANNA

Gloss Bomb Lip

Luminizer.

PKR 2,800

The highly pigmented NATASHA DENONA

Metropolis Eyeshadow Palette is what you need

to get glamorous metallic lids. PKR 20,000

Apply the DIOR Forever Skin Glow to get

a medium-to-full coverage to remain

flawless for hours. PKR 8,200

Define those brows like no

other with the ANASTASIA

BEVERLY HILLS Brow

Definer. PKR 3,500

To make your

makeup last

longer apply

the SMASHBOX

Photo Finish

Foundation

Primer. PKR

5,600

Glide the PATRICK TA Monochrome

Moment velvet blush on the apples

of your cheeks for a rosy glow.

PKR 5,000

6

OK! Beauty

Contour, sculpt

and bring out

the optimal

bone structure

of your facial

architecture

with the TOM

FORD Shade and

Illuminate kit.

PKR 13,800

Use the

HOURGLASS

Caution

Extreme Lash

Mascara for

lashes that

lift sky high.

PKR 4,500

For a dewy glow, apply the BOBBI BROWN

Highlighting Powder to accentuate your

cheekbones and more. PKR 7,500

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THE FRUITY, BERRY

SCENTS THAT WILL KEEP YOU

FRESH AND EVERGREEN ALL WINTER

LONG

INTO THE WOODS

1

2

3

4

5

1. Jo Malone Blackberry & Bay

Cologne 100ml, PKR 19,560

2. Tocca Maya Eau de Parfum

50ml, PKR 13,570

3. Diptyque L’Ombre Dans

L’eau Eau de Toilette 50ml,

PKR 13,970

4. Bulgari Splendida

Tubereuse Mystique 100ml,

PKR 20,760

5. Jimmy Choo Fever Eau,

PKR 15,770

OK! Beauty EDIT

EssentialsBEAUTY

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LOTION THAT SMELLS LIKE COUTUREWith winter

comes

dryness like

a plague!

Avoid

looking like

a corpse

and slather

on some

moisturizer.

Our current

favourite

is the LE

LABO Rose

31 Hand

& Body Lotion. It’s not too

creamy but does the job and

smells like a million bucks

and by that we mean woody,

musky and sensual. Celebs

such as Ellie Goulding, Cat

Deeley and Mandy Moore are

fans and you will be too once

you get a whiff of its scent.

PKR 10,000; www.nordstrom.

com

V.B + A.B.If you’re a beauty aficionado like us, you already

know who renowned skincare specialist Augustinus

Bader is. But did you also know that Victoria

Beckham just collaborated with him to create

the debut skincare product for her VICTORIA

BECKHAM BEAUTY line – a Cell Rejuvenating

Priming Moisturiser. By acting as a serum,

moisturiser, skin protector and primer in one … you

eliminate the need to buy excessive products and

spend on one hero item.

PKR 16,000 for 30ml; www.

victoriabeckhambeauty.com

HIGH PONYTAILStars such as Beyonce, Rihanna, Jennifer Lopez and

more have all been spotted sporting a high ponytail.

Whether it’s poker-straight or curled at the end – the

high ponytail suits a myriad of face shapes and even

gives a facelift effect. So tie those tresses without

dismay and enjoy your hair up for now.

VIXEN LIPSEvery winter just like dryness,

dark, berry stained lips come back

in vogue.

From Bella Hadid, Kylie Jenner,

Karlie Kloss to many more – it

is now apparent that you can

darken that pout out and about.

Make sure though that your

make-up is dewy and your lids

look natural. On our must-have

list is the KAT VON D Studded

Kiss Lipstick in Homegirl.

PKR 1,500; www.sephora.com

94

KAJALINER Stylist extraordinaire Nabila Maqsood just launched her third

beauty product and it’s Ah-mazing! Dark and extremely long

lasting, the dual sided stick comes with a kajal on one side

and an eyeliner on the other. Water-resistant, this star

product can create graphic lined lids or even smoky

eyes.

PKR 2,990; www.zeromakeup.com

prices are approximate

IN HER BAG?Actress Yashma Gill reveals to OK! Pakistan what she totes

around in her bag.

What’s

96 OK! PAKISTAN • 93

TONY MOLY Lip Balm

I always keep this lip balm with

me as I don’t want my lips to look

dehydrated.

SUNGLASSES

I always carry shades in my bag,

because I can’t get out of the

house without shades.

TIC TAC

I always

need a Tic

Tac mouth

freshener

right after my

meals; fresh

breath makes

me feel good. CAROLINA

HERRERA Good

Girl Parfum

This shoe shaped

perfume is my

favorite one. It is

always important

to smell good.

It doesn’t fit in

all my bags but I

make sure to fit it

however I can.

BATH & BODY

WORKS Sanitizer

This Vanilla

Coconut Hand

Sanitizer makes

your hands smell

very fresh and

clean especially

right after having

a meal, I always

carry a hand

sanitizer with me.

PRODA Tape Power

Bank

I always need a

power band with

me because of my

shoot routines.

CHARGER

Everyone should carry

a charger in his or her

bag because you need

to charge your phone.

THE BODY SHOP Lip Balm

This pyramid shaped lip

balm gives you moisturized

lips with a hint of pink.

BAND-AID

Just in case, the need for a

bandage arises.

AYMR Lip &

Cheek Stain

This gives

a very nice

and natural

pink tone to

my lips. It’s

my on-the-

go lip tint.

REVLON

Eyelash Curler

It instantly

opens your eyes

even if you don’t

have mascara

on you.

Favourite get away?

Maldives, hands down.

Celebrity crush?

Tom Hardy.

Favourite style icon?

Crushing on Rosie

Huntington these days.

Guilty pleasure?

Shack burger with a

vanilla milkshake.

Celebrity

encounters?

Anna Wintour

in Rome this

summer!

Favourite

pastime?

Spa day!

All-time

favourite movie?

Can’t pick one

but from the past

couple years it

would have to be

Interstellar.

Beauty

extravagance?

Skincare, skincare

and skincare – Dr.

Nigma Serum No

1 and IS Clinical

Active serum are

my hero products. Can’t live without…?

My sisters!

Three must-haves in

your bag?

Sol de Janeiro Hand

Cream, Laura Mercier

Secret Camouflage

Concealer, and lipstick

(currently it’s Charlotte

Tilbury’s Sexy Sienna).

MY WONDERFUL LIFEThe gorgeous Izza Sami Khan shares some of her

favourite things with OK! Pakistan

98

Favourite scent?

Depends on the season

– I like something a little

more intense for the

winter so it’s currently Jo

Malone Velvet Rose and

Oud.

Latest extravagant

buy?

All the clothes I

just bought for my

sister’s wedding.

Fitness regime?

Three resistance and

three cardio workouts

a week.

Favourite designers?

Couldn’t pick one

but I love shopping

the curated edit at

Matches fashion.

Favourite indulgence?

Really good Japanese

food.

Ideal weekend?

Staying in for some R and R

with my dog Drogo and my

hubby while binging on some

Netflix and carbs.

extravagance?

Favourite book?

Love In The Time Of

Cholera – it kind of just

stayed with me a while.

Most memorable moment?

One of my top five memorable

moments would definitely be being

in Venice the night of the Redentore

Festival and watching the fireworks

with my husband – it was magical

and nothing like I’ve seen before.

OK! PAKISTAN • 99

OK! Pakistan brings you the best of what’s in store from the editor’s desk!

MUST-HAVE

FENTY BEAUTY Glossy Posse Mini Gloss Bomb Set This limited-edition collection

of five mini Gloss Bomb shades,

featuring bestselling FU$$Y

and four brand-new, colourful

shades is perfect for the festive

season. You get a bunch of

glossies for di�erent looks at an

a�ordable price.

PKR 6,000; www.sephora.com

YVES SAINT LAURENT Libre Eau De Parfum Duo SetUpdate your scent according to the season

and try the latest YVES SAINT LAURENT Libre

Eau De Parfum. It’s a mix of Lavender, Orange

Blossom and Musk encapsulated in a beautiful

bottle that will dazzle your beauty countertop

and make you smell haute.

PKR 14,000; www.sephora.com

ÉMINENCE Firm Acai Masque This unique combination

of acai, blueberry,

raspberry and

blackberry feeds your

skin and keeps it looking

healthy. It plumps and

regenerates your skin for

an ageless appearance.

PKR 7,720; Available at

leading salons

PETER THOMAS ROTH 24K Gold Pure Luxury Lift & Firm Prism Cream - Rs.6000 Treat your skin and indulge in this

über luxe facial moisturiser that

tackles major issues like discoloration,

dullness and fine lines. It is suitable for

all skin types and is a delicious optical

illusion for flawless looking skin.

PKR 6,000; Available at leading

salons

FANOLA No Yellow Shampoo Ideal for grey, blonde or discoloured hair. FANOLA’s No

Yellow Shampoo contains violet pigments that tone down

unwanted yellow hues on grey, light blonde or streaked hair.

Just shampoo your hair with this once or twice a week and

avoid that gross, yellow, brassy tone.

PKR 1,600; Available at leading salons

TATCHA Dewy Glow SetIf you’ve been wanting to try one of the

leading skincare brands in the industry

now would be the time. The limited-

edition TATCHA set contains the Dewy

Skin Cream, the Silk Canvas, the Violet-C

Radiance Mask and the Luminous

Dewy Skin Mist – star products that

will elevate your daily skincare routine.

Formulated using Japanese technology,

we recommend you grab this.

PKR 8,500; www.sephora.com

Beauty

ERNO LASZLO Hydra Therapy Memory Sleep Mask Ready for a recharge? The ERNO

LASZLO Sleep Mask soothes, plumps

and delivers a burst of replenishing

moisture whenever thirsty skin needs

it most. After sun, travel, pollution

or other stressors deplete your skin,

natural hydrators cool it down and

deliver vital nutrients, refreshing and

filling fine lines so skin looks younger

and energized.

PKR 15,000; Available at leading

salons

HYRDRIS WAJIUDDINThe owner and founder of HydroFit shares the

inside scoop with OK! Pakistan

OK! SPOTLIGHT

Despite the longevity and success

that he’s had as a trainer and coach,

Hyrdris Wajiuddin owner and founder

of HydroFit, has remained humble

and approachable himself. He takes

pride in the attention to detail that he provides to

his clients as well as his never-ending aspiration to

better himself and his clients through fitness.

Read about his fitness mantra, his fitness

philosophy and more…

What inspired you to join the fitness industry?

How did you develop a love for health and

fitness?

Hyrdris Wajiuddin: I come from a very fitness-

oriented family background. As a child I was always

at clubs playing sports or swimming, and at school

I always stood first in running competitions and

was always seen playing football or basketball. My

father and my brother are both national badminton

champions and I was also a professional swimmer,

competing in the Sindh Open and Interclub and

Club championships for however long I was

training. I would incorporate gym workouts in my

swimming training, but eventually developed more

of an interest for fitness rather than swimming.

A lot of people were pretty impressed with how I

used to workout and they would almost always

require help with their workouts. That developed

an interest because I connected with their bodies

so well and got to see how di�erent workouts

would react to di�erent bodies. That’s when I

delved into the subject further and from that point

onwards, there was no stopping me.

How would you describe your fitness

philosophy?

HW: For me, fitness is not a challenge or a

transformation that someone can just do for a

specific time period. Fitness for me becomes part

of your daily routine and is as important as food or

sleep. It becomes a lifestyle and there is no debate

with me when it comes to this.

What’s your typical day like?

HW: I wake up at 5:50AM, shower, have my

breakfast and then I’m o� to the gym. I like to get

my own workout out of the way first so I’m training

from 6:45-7:30AM. From that time onwards till

1:00PM we have clients and group sessions non-

stop. We take a “break” for a couple of hours which

is technically not a break because we have so

much of work going on behind the scenes as well.

Clients start coming in after 3:00PM and we’re

back to training till about 9:30PM. Hectic, yes, but I

wouldn’t trade this for anything else.

Do you have fitness goals for yourself? If so,

what are they?

HW: Of course, I do. Without them I can’t proceed

in life so I always have some goal or motivation in

mind to move forward. If there is one goal, it is to

increase muscle size while staying shredded at the

same time. It is hard, but that is one thing I would

want to attain.

What do you like the most about your gym and

training others?

HW: I can’t explain it. It’s a magical vibe and anyone

who comes here will tell you that the vibe is unreal.

When it comes to training others, whether they feel

it or not, I see every client as a projection of myself

so I get very connected to them; everything that

they do when it comes to their physical aesthetics

and internal fitness, I’m there with them.

Can you describe your time management

approach for assisting individual clients versus

group workout classes?

HW: We have one muscle-based workout for

everyone. For instance, if we’re training legs,

whether they’re here to lose weight or gain muscle,

everyone follows the same muscle workout but a

di�erent routine. I’ve hired trainers who work with

group sessions, but even if I have a one-on-one

client, everyone is under my radar, which is one of

the reasons why I’ve kept the gym small.

What are some common fitness

misconceptions/questions you are asked by

your clients?

HW: “Weight uthanay se hum barey hojayenge” is a

common misconception that women seem to have

and “Weight uthanay se hamien injury hojayegi” is

a common misconception that men seem to have.

These are the most common misconceptions I

deal with. People also approach me and tell me

that your height stops increasing when you start

lifting weights, I’m like, “Dude, you’re already an

adult. You’re not going to grow anymore.” But you

know, it is what it is.

How is your fitness mantra di�erent from

others?

HW: It’s all about the lifestyle, baby. All day, all

night, all year round.

How do you incorporate nutrition into your

coaching?

HW: There is no coaching without nutrition.

It covers 80-90% of your day. Imagine if

OK! PAKISTAN • 101

102

Rapid Fire:When you’re not coaching and training,

what are some other things you like to do

for fun?

HW: Netflix and chill.

Future plans for Hydrofit?

HW: Stay tuned!

What is your favourite food to eat on a

cheat day?

HW: A 250-gram beef patty burger with

cheese fries!

Favourite superhero?

HW: Okay, he’s not really a superhero, but to

me he is. Maximus from Gladiator!

Last book you read?

HW: Not gonna lie, I’m not a book worm. I’ve

done tons of internet reading, but never a

book.

Ideal destination?

HW: La-Roche-sur-Yon, France, which also

happens to be the place where I was born.

Favourite celebrity you’ve worked with?

HW: I don’t have a favorite. They’re all

amazing. Everyone becomes a part of me

and they’re all family so the list is really long.

I’m truly blessed.

Describe HydroFit in three words?

HW: Consistency, honesty and punctuality.

If you could get yourself anything, what

would you get?

HW: I’m already blessed to have whatever I

need in life so I’m fairly content.

Pet peeves?

HW: People who don’t come on time and

those who don’t stick to their words and

don’t keep their promises. Also, cleanliness,

cleanliness, cleanliness. Everyone and

everything has to be clean around me.

you’re only giving me 40 minutes out of your

day, you still have 23 hours left; so, your sleep,

nutrition and overall lifestyle (whether active

or sedentary) all play a role in how you look

physically and aesthetically. Whenever I talk

to a client about their goals, the discussion

is mostly about nutrition because there’s no

debate about my fitness regimen since it’s

what I do and I am responsible for my clients’

workout, but they are responsible for their own

nutrition, which is why discussions with clients

mainly revolve around that.

What’s the main di�erence that you’ve noticed

when training a professional athlete versus

training a celebrity/entertainer, and then versus

training an amateur?

HW: For me, fitness is my passion. Whenever a

client joins me, they always score 100 points in

my book. They only start to lose points with how

they are towards me as humans. Whether he/she

is an amateur or a professional athlete, that has

no benchmark for me. It doesn’t matter whether

they’re stepping into a gym for the first time, or

they’re a celebrity or just a regular client. Everyone

is treated as an equal at HFT.

Do you have any standout clients in terms of

transformation and/or lifestyle change?

HW: So many. Whoever comes here, transforms –

so, are you ready for the list?

Can you tell me three essential exercises you

suggest for all clients, and why?

HW: Compound exercises like squats, deadlifts,

and core. These are compound exercises that cover

your muscles from head to toe and you shouldn’t

miss out on any of them.

Walk us through an overview of a training

program you would set up for a client looking

strictly for weight loss and toning. What do you

tell clients who are looking for instant results?

HW: I don’t believe in instant results, so you’re

knocking on the wrong door. It’s a lifestyle.

Aesthetic and physical results are a free

package after a few months of training with me

but that is not our main focus. You’re focusing

on making yourself healthier and being the

best version of yourself. Not only do you start

seeing results after a while but you become

stronger as well.

What are your thoughts on the fitness sector

generally?

HW: The fitness scene right now is crazy. I’m

so happy and proud of whoever is out there

getting everyone fit. Mad respect to all my fitness

colleagues and sending you all positive vibes

through and through.

OK! PAKISTAN • 103

INTERVIEW: MEHR KASSIMPHOTOGRAPHS: COURTSEY HYRDRIS WAJIUDDIN

I don’t believe in instant results, so you’re knocking on the wrong door.

104

ZUBAB RANA ZUBAB RANA OK! PAKISTAN GETS UP CLOSE AND PERSONAL WITH THE TALENTED

TELEVISION ACTRESS

UP CLOSE WITH

Zubab Rana made her dubut as an actress

in the television series Naseebon Jali for

which she was nominated as the Best Soap

Actress at the Hum Awards. Since then there has

been no looking back for the talented actress. She

is best known for her role as an antagonist in the

television series Mere Khudaya, for which she was

nominated as the Best Emerging Talent at the Lux

Style Awards.

OK! Pakistan talks to Zubab Rana about her role as

Aleena, her inspirations, showbiz and more…

How would you define yourself as an individual?

ZUBAB RANA: I am an emotional person, but

at the same time I am really strong headed and

confident. I don’t let my emotions get the best of

me, but I think it is a strong part of my personality.

At what point in your life, did you realise that

you were destined to be an actor?

ZR: I never really wanted to be an actor, but once I

started, I wanted my dramas to have some kind of

a message. I want to work on dramas that are close

to reality, so that my audience has the chance to

relate to it, and I have the chance to put something

positive out there through my work.

Who is your inspiration?

ZR: Every person who works really hard is my

inspiration.

Describe a typical day in your life?

ZR: Shoots, if not, then I do things, which I haven’t

tried.

The role of an antagonist, Aleena in the drama

serial Mere Khudaya, had a lot of shades. Can

you tell us a bit about that? How did you decide

on playing the role?

ZR: Aleena’s character from Mere Khudaya is

OK! PAKISTAN • 105

still remembered, and you can say that people

started hating me as Aleena, which was a good

thing for me as an actress. I got positive reviews

for this character, but when I initially got this role I

was confused about whether or not I should do it

because the character is so unlike me. The script

was amazing and that’s why I couldn’t stop myself

from playing this role.

From the few roles you have played so far,

which has been the one which

has impacted you the most – in

a positive or a negative way?

ZR: I’ve always wanted to challenge

myself with the characters I play

so when I took on Aleena’s role,

even though it was really tricky,

I went ahead with it because it

highlighted an important social

issue. So, this role really impacted

me, because being in that kind of

a story, I could really understand

what girls must go through.

You were nominated in the

category of Best Emerging

Talent at the Lux Style Awards

2019. How did that make you

feel?

ZR: It felt great, but I think there

are a lot more things that I need to achieve.

When a script comes your way, what gives you

the feeling that this might just work?

ZR: I always make sure to give my best, because

I am really passionate about my work. Whenever

any character is given to me, I put my heart and

soul into it. I try to pick roles that would leave some

kind of an impact on the audience, because it is

important to give out a social message.

How do you prepare for your characters? Is

there a certain philosophy that you always

follow to get into the feel of a role?

ZR: You just need to mould yourself in tune with

the character, whether it’s negative or positive.

Any role you would want to do that hasn’t come

your way?

ZR: I want to do a life-changing character;

something that would leave an impact on the

audience.

Likes and dislikes about showbiz?

ZR: I think all this depends on yourself, and how

you treat showbiz.

How do you maintain a perfect balance between

your work and

family life?

ZR: I always

make sure to

give proper time

to my family.

Any plans to

venture into

movies?

ZR: If a good

script comes

my way, you

guys would

soon see me on

the big screen.

W h a t ’ s

your fitness

regime?

ZR: I eat healthy, I drink a lot of water, and I work

out.

Favourite holiday destination?

ZR: Bali and Maldives.

Beach or the mountains?

ZR: I like both; it depends on my mood.

Favourite food?

ZR: I am not really a foodie.

Modelling or Acting?

ZR: Modelling.

A fun fact about you that people are not aware

of?

ZR: I am a fun person to be around, if you are my

friend you’d know this.

Facebook or Instagram?

ZR: Instagram.

Day or night?

ZR: Night.

Last movie watched?

ZR: The Fault In Our Stars.

INTERVIEW: MEHR KASSIMPHOTOGRAPHER: JAFFER HASAN

HAIR & MAKE-UP: NABILASWARDROBE: MANTRA

STYLIST: FAIZ@ ON FLEEKCOORDINATION: TEAM ALCHEMISTS

LORNA JANE CLARKSON

The Australian fashion designer and

fitness guru shares two recipes from

her cookbook Eat Good Food

106

dine DIVINE

Pumpkin And Cauliflower Soup With Tahini Cream SERVES 4

INGREDIENTS

750g (1½lb) pumpkin, skin on, cut into

wedges

500g (1lb) parsnips, cut into rounds

¼ cup (60ml) cold-pressed extra-

virgin olive oil

500g (1lb) cauliflower, broken into

small florets

1 teaspoon cumin seeds

1 large brown onion (200g), chopped

1 litre (4 cups) vegetable or chicken

stock

¼ cup (40g) pomegranate seeds

¼ cup flat-leaf parsley

For the tahini cream

2 tablespoons hulled tahini, at room

temperature

1 teaspoon water, approximately

¼ cup (70g) Greek-style yoghurt

1 tablespoon lemon juice cream

SERVES 4

1. Preheat oven to 200˚C/400˚F. Line two oven trays

with baking paper.

2. Place pumpkin and parsnip on one tray; drizzle with

1 tablespoon of the oil. Season. Place cauliflower on

remaining tray; drizzle with 1 tablespoon of the oil and

sprinkle with cumin seeds. Season. Roast pumpkin

and parsnip for 45 minutes or until soft. Remove

parsnip when it is tender (it may cook faster than the

pumpkin). Roast cauliflower for 40 minutes or until

golden and slightly charred. Scoop the flesh from the

pumpkin; discard skin.

3. Heat remaining oil in a large saucepan over

medium heat; cook onion for 10 minutes or until soft.

Add pumpkin flesh, parsnip and stock; bring to boil.

Reduce heat; simmer, covered, for 15 minutes. Stand

for 10 minutes to cool slightly.

4. Blend or process soup, in batches, until smooth.

Return soup to pan over low heat; stir until hot.

Season to taste.

5. Meanwhile, to make tahini cream, combine tahini,

yoghurt and juice in a medium bowl. Thin down with

the water, if needed.

6. Serve soup with a dollop of tahini cream and

topped with cauliflower, pomegranate, parsley and a

sprinkle of extra toasted cumin seeds, if you like.

1.

4.

6.

Key Lime TartletsSERVES 12

INGREDIENTS

1 ½ cups (225g) raw cashews

2/3 cup (150g) fresh dates, pitted,

chopped coarsely

1 ½ cups (115g) shredded coconut,

toasted

2 tablespoons cacao powder

½ teaspoon sea salt flakes

2/3 cup (160g) cold-pressed extra-virgin

coconut oil, melted

½ cup (125ml) lime juice

¼ cup (60ml) lemon

juice

2 medium avocados

(500g), chopped coarsely

1/3 cup (80ml) pure

maple syrup

8 drops stevia

Thinly sliced lime rind, to

serve

1. Place cashews in a small

bowl; cover with cold

water. Stand, covered, for

2 hours. Drain cashews,

then rinse under cold water; drain well.

2. Process one-third of the cashews until

finely chopped. Add dates and process

to form an almost smooth paste. Add

shredded coconut, cacao, half the salt and

2 tablespoons of the coconut oil; pulse to

combine.

3. Line a 12-hole (1/3 cup/80ml) mu�n

pan with 2 strips of baking paper in a cross,

over base and up sides of holes. Press

slightly heaped tablespoonfuls of the date

mixture into each case, firmly pressing up

against the sides. Refrigerate until needed.

4. Blend remaining cashews with remaining

ingredients, using a high-

powered blender, until

mixture is a very smooth

consistency. Spoon evenly

among cases; refrigerate

for at least 4 hours or until

set. Serve topped with

lime rind and micro herbs,

if you like.

EAT GOOD FOOD, £32, BY

LORNA JANE CLARKSON,

IS OUT NOW. VISIT WWW.

LORNAJANE.CO.UK.

The city of Istanbul harbors its secrets.

Behind all the glitter and the swooning

glory of picturesque sceneries, lies

fragments of debauchery and struggles.

We might imagine Istanbul as a honeymoon

destination but according to Elif Shafak’s novel 10

Minutes And 38 Seconds In This Strange World, it is

dark and remorseless as a bustling metropolis can

be, and somewhere in that city is the dead body of a

murder victim Leila Tequila, but her mind still lingers

for about 10 minutes and 38 seconds, giving us

enough glimpse of her life to know her.

The British-Turkish writer Elif Shafak pens a

gripping historical fiction, which caught the world’s

eyes and mine as it was placed on a bookstore

which I patronize often. I usually don’t plan which

book to purchase before visiting the store. I enjoy

unexpected encounters and this was one of the best

ones – encountering a novel amidst all its scent and

curiosity after I had read the synopsis. Elif Shafak has

written several psychological and tradition barrier

breaking books. She is widely known for her two top

winning novels The Bastard Of Istanbul and Forty

Rules Of Love. Soon this one will be added to the list

as it was nominated for the prestigious Booker Prize

Award 2019. The author holds a PHD in Political

Science and is also an avid TED speaker.

The book is divided into three parts; the first is the

time span of 10 minutes and 38 seconds in which

Leila reminisces all her life memories while the

second and the third parts are after her death and

what becomes of the body.

Leila Tequila leads a much-confined life in the

little town of Van. Her family consists of staunch

Muslims due to which traditions and religion often

become an obstacle for little Leila’s adventures, well,

until she runs away from home after the death of her

only, yet abnormal brother Tarkan. Being anxious of

the truth that her real mother was actually her aunt,

dealing with a pedophile uncle, and being thrown

into an arranged marriage with an abhorred cousin

(the son of the same debauch uncle), it had already

become unacceptable for Leila to endure any further

as she eloped to Istanbul, a big city for dreamers.

Our protagonist was in her mid-teens when she

arrived in the big glamourous city. She had always

wished to visit Istanbul where she would be free

from her rigid and dysfunctional family. The Turkish

capital would be the best place to live her dreams

and a peaceful life. She fulfilled her promise to the

big city by visiting it, but Istanbul did not do quite

the same. Leila was forced to live through hard

ways in a brothel. She soon found out the all that

glitters wasn’t gold and she was facing the music

for believing in an illusion – a misconception about

Istanbul. She once says: “Istanbul was an illusion, a

magician’s trick gone wrong.”

Five more characters play a significant role in

our unfortunate protagonist’s escapades, each

with their unique names. There’s Sabotage Sinan –

Leila’s childhood friend, who decided to follow her to

Istanbul. Nostalgia Nalan – a transgender atheist.

Zainab122 – a female midget who was a maid in the

brothel Leila lived in. Hollywood Humeyra – who met

Leila coincidently while saving a cat who they later

named Mr. Chaplin. And last but not least, the North

African Refugee Jameela. These five were everything

Leila had; each of them unique and with an endless

feeling of love and care for one other. I really admired

the bridge of emotions between them being shared.

Elif Shafak creates her own world under her own

crafted blanket of emotions and fiction. She sheds

light to many hidden secrets of the city. I never knew

the European influenced Turkey was (or maybe still

is) a place of strict social values and not as liberal

as it seemed. I like how she has put a twinge of

historical events including the assassination attempt

on US President Kennedy, the World War moments

when the US fleet had arrived in Istanbul, and the

inauguration of the Bosporus Bridge. Shafak writes

about racism and social atrocities. She has reminded

us in her works that the grass on the other side is not

always greener. She has reinforced us tremendously

with perceptions by dividing the crucial issues and

her thoughts on each of the characters.

Once when the US fleet was about to land,

the owner of the brothel Bitter Ma had decided to

transform her place into a beautiful luxurious one

in order to entice the American pockets and while

the US fleet soldiers failed to visit the red light area

due to a protest movement, one rebellious man

managed to visit the brothel in search for Leila. He

calls himself D/Ali and he turns out to be Leila’s

fervent swain. They soon marry and Leila hopes to

spend a peaceful, respectable life with her lover in

the coming days.

Just when everything seems to be a happy ending

for Leila, things soon start taking an unfortunate turn.

Leila once visits a protest rally with her new husband.

The protest is subjugated by the forces and D/Ali

ends up dying. Leila realises how fast her happiness

and solace vanished; just as fast as they had come.

Later Leila continues working for Bitter Ma at the

brothel.

One fine day while returning from a rich client,

Leila accepts a ride with two guys without informing

Bitter Ma. The next day Leila’s dead body is found in

a trash bin brutally abused. Afterwards, confirming

she has no blood relatives who are willing to receive

her body, the government decides to bury her inthe

unfortunate Cemetery of Companionless (a real

place in the Turkish city of Kilyos).

Leila’s five friends, who were not allowed to

receive her body for not being related by blood,

decide to exhume her from that dreadful graveyard

and give her a proper Islamic funeral with a grave in a

normal graveyard. After a series of dramatic events,

they end up throwing Leila’s body into the sea, even

after being caught by the police after, since she had

always wanted that and not a burial.

Leila, though dead, observes the happenings

around her and seems to be at peace and harmony

finally.

While the Turkish writer crafts a stirring piece of

fiction literature, she fails to further enrich the details

of the society, which leave many curious unanswered

questions. Elif Shafak has only highlighted social

issues through her work such as the attitude towards

transsexuals without going further into it, and if she

had done that, this could have been arguably the

most emotional story of the year.

One more thing is that Leila seems to notice

everything even after 20 hours of her death while it

says explicitly in the beginning that the mind of the

dead does not last for more than 10 minutes and 38

seconds. This creates confusion within me. Other

than that, it’s a fine piece of art making you come

back for more and more.

Ten Minutes And Thirty-Eight Seconds In This

Strange World is an eye-opening letter to the world. I

would highly recommend this book, especially if one

desires to know about the unknown, where it’s more

than meets the eyes. The reader gets to share ardent

emotions with the fastidiously crafted characters, as

if you are a part of their world.

! PAKISTAN • 133

OK! PAKISTAN • 107STOCKISTS: LIBERTY BOOKS www.libertybooks.com

OK! LITERATI

REVIEW: SHARGEEL SHEIKH

10 MINUTES 38

SECONDS IN THIS

STRANGE WORLD

TRAVELLER’S TALE

ABEER RIZVIGOES TO TURKEY

The model shares details of her recent trip

with OK! Pakistan

Where did you go?

ABEER RIZVI: Turkey.

What made you go here?

AR: I had a shoot for a shoe brand.

What did you pack?

AR: Essentials as well as di�erent kinds of clothes

and shoes.

What was favourite meal/restaurant?

AR: Nusret in Istanbul was a lot of fun.

What was the biggest highlight of your trip/

most memorable moment?

AR: Roaming around the beautiful city and

meeting di�erent people.

Favourite shopping destination?

AR: The Nisantasi area of Istanbul.

Some sights worth seeing?

AR: The Marmara Island, the Topkapi Palace and

the Blue Mosque area are all memorable and

beautiful.

What are some spots for a night out?

AR: I didn’t venture out at night as shoot days

meant early to bed.

Travel essentials?

AR: Toothpaste and toothbrush!

Any travel tips you would like to share?

AR: Don’t forget your money at home and your

heart at the destination.

OK! PAKISTAN • 109

TE

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: M

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; P

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TO

GR

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: C

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ES

Y A

BE

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VI

One of the Middle East’s undiscovered gems,

the Sultanate of Oman boasts over 1,000 miles

of coastline, endless desert delights, rugged

mountains dotted with historic forts and bustling

bazaars – the perfect place to buy souvenirs. The

former Portuguese colony celebrates its National

Day on November 18 with a public holiday, when

you’ll see colourful parades, fireworks, camel

races, an equestrian show, a marine festival and

much more in the capital Muscat. Head there in

December, however, and you may be brushing

shoulders with royalty as the Duke of Cambridge

is due to visit Oman and nearby Kuwait.

Unlike its neighbour Dubai, Oman is not all about

skyscrapers and commercialism, but low-rise

whitewashed buildings, traditional villages, local

heritage and handicrafts. A lovely way to view

this is by hiking in the mountains, passing through

villages and terraced hillsides or exploring steep-

110

OK! TRAVEL

ROCKY ROADIF ADVENTURE IS WHAT YOU’RE AFTER, THE SULTANATE OF OMAN WON’T DISAPPOINT WITH ITS PANORAMIC VIEWS AND

BREATHTAKING, NATURAL BEAUTY

sided wadis (the Arabic term for valley). You can

also admire the ancient trees brimming with

apricots, dates, olives, walnuts and pomegranates

as you go.

Quad biking and dune bashing across

the miles of empty desert is a popular visitor

recreation. However, OK! couldn’t resist a more

adrenalin pumping activity – abseiling! It was

a really exhilarating, albeit nerve-tingling,

experience, as we abseiled from a 75-foot cli� and

we were very happy to reach the ground intact!

We also enjoyed a more leisurely pursuit when

we were driven to a remote mountain spot where

a delicious picnic was laid out on a handcrafted

Omani carpet. OK! had some unexpected visitors,

too – mountain goats!

Be sure to visit the waterfront Muttrah

Souq, the famous marketplace in Muscat with

views of the Oman Royal Yacht Squadron. This

is HM Sultan Qaboos bin Said al Said’s private

collection of boats ranging from super-sleek

yachts to traditional wooden sailing vessels.

At the market, you’ll experience a visual and

sensory overload. The colourful stalls overflow

with barrels of spices (sa�ron and turmeric),

traditional carpets and handwoven textiles, silver

and gold jewellery, pottery and Omani sweets

(Halwa).

Perched 6,575 feet above sea level in the majestic

Jabal Al Hajar Mountains is Sahab Resort and

Spa. OK!’s two-hour drive in a 4x4 Jeep from

Muscat airport was spectacularly scenic as we

made the steep ascent to reach the luxury new

27-room hotel that commands jaw-dropping

views of the surrounding mountains. The four-

star boutique retreat had been designed

to blend seamlessly into the rugged

terrain with its rocky exterior walls using

local limestone packed with ancient

fossils. As we walked into the lobby, a

wonderful aroma of roses (the hotel

makes its own rose water) greeted us.

After being o�ered a traditional cup of

Omani co�ee and dates, we were shown

to our elegant room featuring Arabic

lights, striped carpets and stone floors

with a terrace o�ering more stunning

views. Enjoy further panoramic vistas

from the hotel pool – the perfect place

to sit and enjoy a drink as the sun sets.

After a long day exploring, OK! enjoyed a

perfect indulgent massage in the hotel’s

URU Spa, where the calming scents,

candles and music all aided relaxation.

What was truly special about the hotel’s

Warda restaurant is that OK! literally

dined under the stars on the outside

canopied terrace surrounded by the

natural beauty of the mountains. The

restaurant has an open-air grill (as well

as a pizza oven) and the menu features

both Omani and Western dishes. OK!’s

favourite was the succulent lamb chops,

hamour fish spiced with Omani masala and umm

ali for desert, a heavenly Arabic sweet pastry.

OK! PAKISTAN • 111

FEATURE BY MEGAN DAVIESEDITED BY OK! TRAVEL EDITOR ANNABEL MACKIE

PHOTOGRAPHS: SHUTTERSTOCK

recreation. However, OK! couldn’t resist a more with barrels of spices (sa�ron and turmeric),

star boutique retreat had been designed

to blend seamlessly into the rugged

terrain with its rocky exterior walls using

local limestone packed with ancient

fossils. As we walked into the lobby, a

wonderful aroma of roses (the hotel

makes its own rose water) greeted us.

After being o�ered a traditional cup of

Omani co�ee and dates, we were shown

to our elegant room featuring Arabic

lights, striped carpets and stone floors

with a terrace o�ering more stunning

views. Enjoy further panoramic vistas

from the hotel pool – the perfect place

to sit and enjoy a drink as the sun sets.

After a long day exploring,

perfect indulgent massage in the hotel’s

URU Spa, where the calming scents, URU Spa, where the calming scents,

candles and music all aided relaxation.

What was truly special about the hotel’s

Warda restaurant is that

dined under the stars on the outside

canopied terrace surrounded by the

natural beauty of the mountains. The

restaurant has an open-air grill (as well

as a pizza oven) and the menu features

both Omani and Western dishes.

perfect indulgent massage in the hotel’s

URU Spa, where the calming scents,

sided wadis (the Arabic term for valley). You can

112

WHAT TO DO IF YOU FEEL LIKE A FRAUD

EVEN THE STARS HAVE IMPOSTER SYNDROME, WITH ELLIE

GOULDING AMONG THOSE FEELING THEY DON’T DESERVE

THEIR SUCCESS

OK! HEALTH

What Actually Is Imposter

Syndrome?While not a medically recognized disorder,

imposter syndrome describes an attack of self-

doubt which leaves us feeling fraudulent, either

personally or professionally. Psychologist and

bestselling author Katie Woodland (www.

katiewoodland.co.uk) tells

OK!: ‘As a phrase, it was first coined in 1978. It’s

something I help women with a lot, and there

are many theories on it. But, in my opinion,

it’s simply a fear-based anxiety which we

have every time we step outside our comfort

zone. We’re terrified of the unknown and are

genetically wired to stay where it’s safe.’

Who Is Most Susceptible To

It?Many studies suggest women are worst

She may be basking in a post-wedding

glow, but singer Ellie Goulding has

spoken about her battle with imposter

syndrome. Though not an officially

recognized medical condition, the anxiety-

based problem makes us seriously doubt our

own ability, and is said to affect 70 per cent

of the UK. Writing on social media after World

Mental Health Day, Ellie, 32, said: ‘I know I

chose this job but nothing could have prepared

me for the ups and downs that come with

it. I know that a lot of my anxiety has come

from what they call “imposter syndrome”, not

believing in myself enough and thinking that

I don’t deserve happiness, which sometimes

results in sabotaging your own success.’

The Close To Me singer – who married art

dealer Caspar Jopling in August – is not alone

with such feelings, and Britain’s Got Talent

star Alesha Dixon revealed earlier this year:

‘I’ve definitely been crippled by fear… inside,

I always had a niggle in my brain, moments

of self-doubt which made me question my

abilities.’

Meanwhile, Michelle Obama, 55, has also

said: ‘I still have a little imposter syndrome,

it never goes away.’ And The Circle presenter

Emma Willis, 43, recently said of her early

career: ‘In the beginning, it did feel like a bit of

a boys’ club, and I did feel a bit out of place.

But back then I knew nothing about media or

television. I thought I was an imposter.’

Here, OK! finds out more about this very

modern malaise – and how best to tackle it…

ALESHA HAS ADMITTED TO

BEING ‘CRIPPLED BY FEAR’.

OK! PAKISTAN • 113

a�ected, but Katie says:

‘That’s not the case – men

feel it equally. Women just

talk about it more.’ And

though statistics state

that 70 per cent of people

have it, she adds: ‘I actually

think it a�ects everybody.

We all have an insecurity

about something and we

all measure ourselves

against other people.

We’re social creatures

and need to be

accepted, so every time

we do something that

threatens us, we feel

it. The only people who

probably don’t have it

are young kids, because

they’re fearless.’

What Are The

Symptoms?R e s e m b l i n g

classic signs

of anxiety, it

varies widely.

‘It depends

how much you’re

outside your comfort

zone. If you’re taking

a giant leap, you might

get palpitations, feel

s i c k

or have a

panic attack.

But if you’re

just gently

testing the

water, you

might find

y o u r s e l f

t a l k i n g

negatively, or

doing what

you can to

avoid certain

s i t u a t i o n s . ’

O f t e n ,

s y m p t o m s

can be

triggered by

external factors – such as social media or

‘fear of missing out (FOMO)’. ‘Most people

present their ‘amazing’ life rather than their

problems on social media. We measure

ourselves against that – when in reality we

never know what’s really going on with them.’

As for whether such lifestyle factors have

increased imposter syndrome, Katie adds:

‘It’s hard to know – people still felt it 20 years

ago, they just weren’t sharing it in the same

way.’

Can It Be Treated?‘The only real way to overcome it is to do the

thing that scares you,’ Katie stresses. ‘But

that’s difficult.’ First, we need to recognise

what terrifies us, and then tackle it in small

steps. ‘Desensitise yourself by integrating

yourself into it slowly.’ Crucially, this involves

being kinder to ourselves. ‘We always focus

on things we do wrong, which reaffirms

imposter feelings. So whenever you achieve

something, no matter how small, celebrate

it. You’ll soon start believing you deserve your

success.’ Katie advises keeping a journal. ‘It’s

proven to be more powerful than meditation,

and only takes five minutes a day.’ Entries

should highlight positives, even in challenging

situations. ‘If you do something you struggle

with, write down just one thing that went well.

Then look to the future and note what you

want to achieve next.’

Avoiding social media can help, too, says Katie:

‘Limit it until you feel strong enough – and rather

than comparing yourself to others, start writing

your own success story instead.’

FE

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external factors – such as social media or

a�ected, but Katie says:

‘That’s not the case – men

feel it equally. Women just

talk about it more.’ And

though statistics state

that 70 per cent of people

have it, she adds: ‘I actually

think it a�ects everybody.

We all have an insecurity

about something and we

all measure ourselves

against other people.

We’re social creatures

and need to be

accepted, so every time

we do something that

threatens us, we feel

it. The only people who

probably don’t have it

are young kids, because

they’re fearless.’

What Are The

Symptoms?R e s e m b l i n g

classic signs

of anxiety, it

varies widely.

‘It depends

how much you’re

outside your comfort

zone. If you’re taking

a giant leap, you might

get palpitations, feel

s i c k

EMMA

WILLIS

ELLIE

GOULDING

MICHELLE OBAMA HAVE

ALSO OPENED UP ABOUT

IMPOSTOR SYNDROME

WORLD IN ACTION

114

U2 PERFORMING THE LAST SHOW OF THE AUSTRALIAN LEG OF THE JOSHUA

TREE TOUR IN PERTH

RISING SEA LEVELS THREATEN REMOTE ALASKAN VILLAGE OF KIVALINA

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OK! PAKISTAN • 115

DOGS ARE EXCITEDLY WAITING FOR THE START OF THE

INTERNATIONAL SLED DOG RACE IN KLAISTOW, BRANDENBURG.

MORE THAN 200 PARTICIPANTS FROM 11 NATIONS WILL COMPETE

YI PENG AND LOY KRATHONG LANTERN FESTIVAL IN CHIANG MAI, THAILAND

116

AMIR KHANDECEMBER 8, 1986

HOROSCOPE & TAROTIT’S WRITTEN IN THE STARS!

ARIESMar 21 – Apr 20

Plenty of raw energy

is available you have

to refine it and define

how it a�ects you

and those around

you. Lessons that you

have been learning in regards to your

personal income and values continue

and they seem to be getting better,

but you could be experiencing some

worries and concerns in regard to this

matter.

GEMINIMay 22 – Jun 21Your marriage and

partnership is in

the limelight. Quick

learning will be

necessary in terms

of investments

in order to reap some gain but

watch out for obstacles. You may

be worried and concerned about

shared resources of income. Your

sense of optimism accompanied

by some daydreaming could be

very helpful in balancing these

feelings.

CANCERJun 22 – Jul 23

The focus will be on

figuring out which

beliefs and patterns

are ‘keepers’ and

which are not. ‘A day

at a time’ is what you need to focus

upon. Romance and relationship are

highlighted this month. There is some

uncertainty that needs to be sorted.

You likely to meet interesting new

friends or contacts.

LEO Jul 24 – Aug 23

Some of you may

meet someone

special. Many

di�erences could

surface that could

bring some tension but talking

things out could smooth the way.

Preoccupation concerning your work

could surface as you could be reliving

some unpleasant past experience,

but this time the situation will be

favourable.

LIBRASep 24 – Oct 23There will be

communication and

exchanges of ideas

related to your future

gains of monetary

value and endeavors.

You may have a very conservative

approach to all this due to worries

and concerns at your home base

that are keeping you on guard.

Quick adjustments concerning your

future could also be present so

reorientation will be necessary.

SCORPIOOct 24 – Nov 22

Luck will be with

you on a matter

c o n c e r n i n g

expenditure for your

home base. There

is a lot of confusion due to changes

around you. Everything should be

worked out in a very harmonious way.

Communicating your hopes for the

future with your mate or partner could

be beneficial for shared and personal

resources.

SAGITTARIUSNov 23 – Dec 21

Happy Birthday

to visionary, fun

loving Sagittarius!

This is your time

to mix and mingle

and inspire others with your ‘big

picture’ view of life. You could be

feeling the desire to focus on your

joint personal resources and gain.

A friendly approach could be taken

in order to iron out differences with

your mate or partner.

CAPRICORNDec 22 – Jan 20

The spotlight for you

this month surrounds

a very private

matter concerning

roadblocks regarding

children. Many worries and concerns

will be bothering you but this will be

unfounded and will pass. Many of

you will also be taking an initiative in

regards of letting go from your past

and facing a better future.

AQUARIUSJan 21 – Feb 19New talents

and interests

are beginning to

percolate now.

Health and healing

as well as job

and life direction is highlighted.

Beneficial communication coming

from a friend’s visit in regards to your

work will take place. Changing your

residence looks tempting. Doubts and

insecurities could be bothering you.

An older person could be of help.

PISCESFeb 20 – Mar 20

You might be

focusing on your

career and aims in

life. Your decision

on this matter could

bring future gains with investment

and speculation. You may take into

consideration your area of shared

resources. Open communication with

loved ones should take place in a

harmonious way so your worries and

concerns can be clarified.

TAURUSApr 21 – May 21F o r t u n a t e

circumstances seem

to be surrounding

income and some

gains could come for

you and your partner

or mate. Your work area seems to

be intensifying as unexpected work

may be coming up. Approaching this

as a good experience could be very

enriching to you in the long run. Set

backs are for the better and they

could work out in your favour.

VIRGOAug 24 – Sep 23Your home life is

in the spotlight.

U n e x p e c t e d

d e v e l o p m e n t s

connected to a friend

through work will

teach you a thing or two, and bring

you extra personal income. There are

certain issues connecting the past

and future that need to be negotiated

in order to find a fair solution. A very

rosy opportunity of an investment

nature could come your way.

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MAHIRA KHANDECEMBER 21, 1984

Omega_HQ • Visual: OME--MC17_131.25.29.20.55.001_SP • Magazine: OK_PAKISTAN • Language: English Issue: 04/11/2019 • Doc size: 235 x 320 mm • Calitho #: 11-19-139410 • AOS #: OME_02620 • FP 04/11/2019

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